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Tick-Borne Diseases in Maine
What Pet Owners Need to Know
What Pet Owners Need to Know
Recently, a local dog named Comet was brought into our new urgent care facility at Mainely Veterinary Dentistry & Urgent Care with a sudden, severe limp. We thought his case served as an important reminder of a common concern for pet owners across Maine: tick-borne disease.
While Comet’s symptoms initially appeared to be a simple orthopedic issue, testing revealed infections with Lyme disease and anaplasmosis—two of the most common tick-borne illnesses affecting dogs in the Northeast. Cases like his are unfortunately quite common in Maine, particularly in areas where ticks thrive.
Maine’s environment provides ideal conditions for ticks, especially the blacklegged tick, also known as the deer tick. This species is responsible for transmitting several diseases, including Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis, both of which can affect dogs and humans.
Ticks are most active in wooded, brushy, and grassy areas, but they can also be found in backyards, parks, and along trails. Contrary to popular belief, tick exposure is not limited to the summer months. In Maine, ticks can remain active anytime temperatures are above freezing, including during fall and even mild winter days. Maine’s thriving deer population also contributes to their growing population. This extended period of activity increases the risk of exposure for pets who spend time outdoors.
Tick-borne diseases in dogs can present a wide range of symptoms, making them easy to overlook in the early stages. One of the most recognizable signs is sudden lameness, which may shift from one leg to another due to joint inflammation.
Other common symptoms include:
In more advanced cases, dogs may experience significant pain, difficulty standing, or even collapse.
Because these symptoms can mimic other conditions, diagnostic testing is often necessary to confirm the cause. Fortunately, when identified early, infections like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis are typically treatable with antibiotics and supportive care. Many dogs begin to show improvement within days of starting treatment.
We strongly recommend year-round tick prevention for all dogs in Maine, regardless of their lifestyle. Modern preventive medications—available as oral treatments, topical applications, or collars—are designed to kill ticks before they can transmit disease.
After spending time outdoors, pet owners should thoroughly inspect their dogs, paying close attention to areas where ticks commonly attach. These include around the ears, under the collar, between the toes, and along the belly and inner legs.
In many cases, a tick must be attached for several hours before transmitting disease, so early removal can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Keeping grass trimmed, removing leaf litter, and creating clear boundaries between wooded areas and lawns can help make yards less hospitable to ticks.
We encourage pet owners to remain vigilant for any changes in their dog’s behavior or mobility. Sudden limping, stiffness, or signs of pain should not be ignored, particularly in regions where tick-borne diseases are prevalent.
Comet’s case, while concerning, is not unique. It highlights how quickly tick-borne illnesses can affect otherwise healthy, active dogs—and how important early intervention can be. As tick populations continue to expand in Maine, awareness, prevention, and prompt veterinary care are essential tools in protecting pets.
While a daily tick check and consistent use of preventive care can go a long way in ensuring that dogs stay healthy, active, and able to enjoy the outdoors safely, Mainely Veterinary Dentistry & Urgent Care is here for you when, despite your best efforts, your pet falls ill with a tick or other disease. We are open Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm.
