Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Dogs

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a severe tick-borne bacterial disease in dogs causing vasculitis and potentially fatal systemic illness.

Key Facts

Caused by Rickettsia rickettsii transmitted by Dermacentor and Amblyomma tick species
Clinical signs appear 2-14 days after tick bite and progress rapidly without treatment
Symptoms include fever, lethargy, vomiting, joint pain, and petechial hemorrhages
Thrombocytopenia and vasculitis cause the characteristic hemorrhagic signs
Doxycycline is the treatment of choice and must be started early in disease course
Fatality can approach 25% in untreated cases; early treatment dramatically improves outcomes
Endemic throughout the Americas, not just the Rocky Mountain region despite its name

Welfare Considerations

Rocky Mountain spotted fever causes rapid and severe deterioration in affected dogs. The vasculitis produces widespread inflammation causing pain throughout the body, and without prompt treatment, neurological complications and organ failure follow. Tick prevention and rapid veterinary care when tick exposure occurs are essential to prevent this suffering.

What You Can Do

Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention products year-round in endemic areas
Check your dog for ticks after outdoor activities and remove them promptly and properly
Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog develops fever and lethargy after tick exposure
Inform your vet of tick exposure history as early doxycycline treatment saves lives
Avoid tick-infested areas during peak tick season or use protective gear
Maintain clear grass and vegetation around your home to reduce tick habitat