Practitioners can promote Prevent Lyme in Dogs Month

The Lyme Disease Foundation and Merial Ltd. have joined together to name April national Prevent Lyme in Dogs Month. Borreliosis is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted by the bite of infected deer ticks.

April was chosen because dogs are at an increased risk for contracting borreliosis during spring and summer, according to Merial.

"Dogs have been sentinels for the spread and concentration of Lyme disease in this country," said Thomas Forschner, executive director of the Lyme Disease Foundation. "We feel that veterinarians are in a unique position to help their patients, their (clients), and their community through their vigilance and awareness of tick-borne diseases."

For more information on borreliosis and Lyme disease, visit the foundation at www.lyme.org or Merial's www.frontline.com.