Lyme disease and tick checks
Lyme disease is increasing in Florida. Historically rare here (the climate didn't favor the deer tick), warmer winters and shifting deer populations have brought Lyme into north and central Florida over the past decade.
The disease: caused by Borrelia bacteria, transmitted via deer tick bites. Symptoms in dogs: lameness that shifts between legs, fever, lethargy, joint swelling, sometimes kidney problems. Many infected dogs show no symptoms initially.
Diagnosis: blood test at the vet ($30–$80). Annual tick-disease panels are recommended for Florida dogs that spend time outdoors.
Treatment: 4-week course of doxycycline. Most dogs recover fully if treated early. Late-stage cases can have lasting joint or kidney issues.
Prevention: tick prevention (oral medication monthly), Lyme vaccination (recommended by Florida vets, $30–$50 annually), and tick checks at every grooming visit.
Florida areas with higher Lyme risk: Panhandle, North Florida (Jacksonville, Tallahassee), and central Florida wooded areas. South Florida and the Keys have lower risk.
If your dog spent time hiking, hunting, or in tall grass, request a tick check at every grooming visit. Ask the groomer to flag any ticks rather than just removing them — your vet may want to test the tick.