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Treatment

The main objective of treatment is to clear the body of the organism and stabilize the patient by managing complications like anemia and bleeding related to this disease. Standard antibiotic therapy remains the choice for treatment, along with anti-inflammatory drugs for reducing swelling and inflammation.

Your veterinarian will also treat your dog with fluid therapy to maintain the water content, and if anemia is severe, a blood transfusion may also be required. Other drugs and therapies will be chosen based on the stage of illness your dog is experiencing. Prognosis is best when treatment is begun early.

Living and Management

Observe your dog closely and immediately call your veterinarian if your dog begins to bleed from any site. It is recommended that you provide a calm and quiet space where your dog can rest until fully recovered. Physical activity should be low impact, with short walk outdoors. Avoid areas where ticks may be present as much as possible.

Most dogs recover well with prompt and appropriate therapy. Some dogs clinically recover but the infection is not entirely eradicated, remaining in the body and sometimes returning at a later time. Your veterinarian will repeat blood tests during follow-up examinations to determine your dog's progress. Medications may be changed according to your dog's progress.

Ehrlichiosis is a common infection, and one to be on guard against in almost all geographical locations, and throughout the year. The best preventative is to practice tick control using tick resistant products on your dog, and checking your dog's skin and fur daily for the presence of ticks. Consult your veterinarian for proper guidelines on tick control in your specific area.