NLIS 4
October 21, 2004
(Natural Resources)
 

First case of Lyme disease reported in West Coast dog

Dr. Hugh Whitney, provincial veterinarian, advised the general public today the province has confirmed its first recorded case of Lyme disease in a domestic animal. The disease was confirmed in a dog from the Port au Port Peninsula in Western Newfoundland.

Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria which is spread through the bite of infected ticks. The tick most commonly associated with the spread of Lyme disease is the deer tick.

"We have been monitoring for the presence of the ticks that spread this disease for a number of years. The ticks often make their way to this province on migratory birds during the spring and can survive for months in our climate," said Dr. Whitney. "Despite this discovery of Lyme disease, it is not believed that any permanent populations of the tick exist."

The dog in question was diagnosed and treated by Dr. Ian Crane, a small animal veterinarian based in Corner Brook, who said the animal had a tick removed earlier this summer by its owner.

"Just recently, the dog became lame and stopped eating. Subsequent testing completed locally and through the Atlantic Veterinary College confirmed the diagnosis of Lyme disease," said Dr. Crane. "The dog is now receiving proper treatment and is recovering well."

Dr. Martha Sweeting, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Veterinary Medical Association, says the presence of Lyme disease in a domestic animal confirms there is a real risk which exists from this disease and that steps should be taken by pet owners to reduce this risk.

"We encourage all pet owners to be aware of the steps which should be taken to prevent this disease. The most important precaution is to examine pets after they have spent time in areas where ticks may be present. This includes brush, long grass and along the edges of wooded areas," said Dr. Sweeting. "If a tick is discovered on a pet, it should be immediately and carefully removed with tweezers and brought to a veterinary clinic for identification."

For more information on ticks and Lyme disease, visit the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Web site at www.gov.nl.ca/agric under the Animal Diseases section.

Media contacts:
      Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-5282 or (709) 685-4624
      Dr. Hugh Whitney, Provincial Veterinarian, (709) 729-6879

2004 10 21                             3:30 p.m.