Lyme disease is a bacterial illness transmitted by blacklegged ticks. While many dogs that test positive never show symptoms, others may experience fever, lameness, swollen joints, fatigue, or appetite loss.
The good news: with treatment, most dogs recover well and live happy, healthy lives. If you’re considering adopting a Lyme-positive pup, here’s what to know.
Understanding Lyme Disease in Dogs
Not all Lyme-positive dogs are symptomatic. Some may only test positive, while others may show signs such as joint pain or lethargy. Treatment usually involves a month-long course of antibiotics—most commonly doxycycline—which significantly improves symptoms within days.
What to Expect From the Shelter
Before adoption, shelters should provide medical records that include:
- Vaccination and preventative history
- Spay/neuter status
- Lyme disease test results
- Physical exam notes, including signs of limping, fever, or swollen lymph nodes
Shelter veterinarians often prescribe doxycycline, and your new pup may still be on this medication at adoption time.
Questions to Ask the Shelter
Arrive prepared with questions to ensure you understand your dog’s diagnosis and care needs. Key questions include:
- What test confirmed Lyme disease?
- Were additional blood or urine tests done?
- What symptoms, if any, did my dog show?
- Has my dog received treatment or preventative tick medication?
- Will you provide the remaining prescriptions, or should I get them from my vet?
- How much longer should my dog stay on medication?
- Can I have a copy of the full medical record?
These details will be invaluable for your veterinarian.
Veterinary Care After Adoption
Schedule a vet appointment soon after adoption. Your vet may recommend:
- A full exam to check for Lyme-related symptoms
- Bloodwork and urinalysis to assess kidney function
- Continuing or adjusting doxycycline treatment
- Pain relief or joint supplements if arthritis is present
Rarely, Lyme disease can cause severe kidney disease, so ongoing monitoring is essential.
Treatment Options for Lyme Disease
- Antibiotics (doxycycline): Taken orally once or twice daily for 4+ weeks
- Pain management: For joint inflammation or arthritis
- Supplements: To support joint health and recovery
Most dogs improve within 3–5 days of treatment. In chronic cases, joint damage may remain, requiring long-term management.
Cost of Treating Lyme Disease
Expenses vary depending on your dog’s size, symptoms, and location. Typical costs include:
- Recheck visit with vet: $200+ for exam, bloodwork, and urinalysis
- Medications: $100–$150 or more for doxycycline and pain relief, if not provided by the shelter
Some shelters provide medication free of charge at adoption, which can lower costs significantly.
Long-Term Management
Lyme-positive dogs need ongoing care and monitoring for:
- Arthritis: May require lifelong pain management and joint supplements
- Kidney disease: Though rare, monitoring kidney function is recommended
- Tick prevention: Year-round preventatives and possibly a Lyme vaccine, depending on your region and your vet’s advice
Maintaining a healthy weight and consistent vet care will help reduce stress on joints and support long-term health.
