CAUSE:  Deer Tick (Ixodes) carries bacteria and bits dogs, spreading infection.

MOST COMMON SIGNS OF INFECTION:
Silent infection
-Lack of energy
-High fever
-Swollen, very painful joints
-Loss of appetite
-Vomiting
-Diarrhea

DISEASE PROGRESSION (if left untreated):
Very low numbers of platelets and white blood cells, chronic joint pain, neurological signs (rare).

CO-INFECTION:
Co-infection with Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis is possible.  In addition, it's possible for your dog to become infected with any combination of parasitic diseases.

DIAGNOSIS:
A simple blood test can detect Anaplasmosis and three other infections.  The blood test takes 10 minutes.  Complete blood counts, chemistry profile, urinalysis, and other special tests can be done depending on the initial findings and symptoms.

TREATMENT:
Antibiotics such as Doxycycline or Tetracycline

Vaccine available? No

PROGNOSIS:
If caught and treated early, the outcome is usually very good for a full recovery from symptoms.

PREVENTION:
Daily tick inspection and removal, and the use of topical's and other veterinarian dispensed products.

***IMPORTANT: No prevention is 100% effective.  Test your dog every year.***