Dog owners have been becoming increasingly more concerned about canine Lyme disease. In fact, Lyme disease is the most frequently diagnosed tick-borne disease in North America . Deer ticks are the most common carriers of Lyme disease, though other ticks can transmit the disease as well. Because this disease can also be transmitted from ticks to humans, it is not just a concern for dogs but for their owners too.

Lyme disease causes inflammation to many body systems, which in turn can lead to long-term diseases like arthritis and heart or kidney failure. There are a variety of symptoms that can occur involving the central nervous system, heart, lymph nodes, joints, and other tissues. Though humans may be able to recognize a bull's-eye-like mark or rash as a sign of the disease, these are typically not apparent in pets. Some pets may show signs of lameness or appetite loss. However, diagnosis is often overlooked as there are not specific clinical signs. Unfortunately, a delayed diagnosis can result in significant and long-term damage.