There are different forms of the Lyme disease test that are available to help diagnose this infection in dogs. Lyme disease is transmitted by an infected tick and can be deadly, if not treated. Positive results from a Lyme disease test may not necessarily indicate that a dog is currently infected, as the antibody can stay in the dog's bloodstream for life. Additionally, a Lyme disease vaccination can indicate positive results. Diagnosis can be difficult, but with a combination of testing, observance of symptoms and evaluation of a dog's history, treatment options for Lyme disease are largely successful.
Standard Lyme Disease Blood Tests
A standard Lyme disease test is a simple blood test used to detect antibodies that are created in response to the infection of Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that an infected tick can transmit. Initial testing usually begins with either the SNAP 3DX or SNAP 4DX tests which simply use a small sample of blood to test for Lyme disease, heartworms and other conditions. If a dog is sick and results for this test return positive, indication is fairly clear and treatment options should be discussed. Healthy dogs, however, may also test positive for Lyme disease. This is not necessarily an indication that the infection is present, only that the dog has been exposed to it. Exposure can occur during vaccination for Lyme disease or when a dog contracts the infection, but successfully fights it off naturally. Antibodies will remain in either case, and will be detected by this test.
Lyme Quantitative C6 Antibody Test
The Lyme Quantitative C6 antibody test is a more advanced Lyme disease test that may be used in addition to or in lieu of standard blood tests. This test has many benefits over older and less reliable methods, as it's more specific and can usually differentiate the presence of infection from simple exposure. In the case of the C6 antibody test, dogs that have successfully fought off the infection and those that have been vaccinated should not test positive for Lyme disease. This test is more economically priced than older tests and presents more informative results.
When to Have Your Dog Tested
If you live in an area where ticks reside or your dog is experiencing symptoms of infection, a Lyme disease test may be recommended. Symptoms may not begin to persist in dogs until months after the infection has been transmitted. High fever, soreness or swelling in the joints, loss of appetite, swollen lymph nodes and lack of energy can indicate this infection. In rare cases, dogs can develop problems with the kidneys, heart disease or complications with the nervous system due to Lyme disease. If no other complications persist, treatment is usually very effective. If a dog does not respond quickly to Lyme disease treatment, other conditions or infections may be indicated. Testing early and often can help to keep your dog healthy and identify Lyme disease before it leads to life-threatening complications.