Lyme Nephritis in Dogs: A Severe Complication

Lyme nephritis is a devastating, often fatal kidney complication of Lyme disease in dogs, requiring aggressive treatment and early recognition.

Key Facts

Lyme nephritis is an immune-mediated glomerulonephritis triggered by Borrelia burgdorferi infection
It affects a subset of Lyme-infected dogs, with Labrador and Golden Retrievers most predisposed
Signs include protein-losing nephropathy, edema, weight loss, vomiting, and polyuria/polydipsia
Diagnosis involves serology, urinalysis (significant proteinuria), and renal biopsy in some cases
Prognosis is guarded to poor - many dogs die or are euthanized within weeks to months
Treatment includes antibiotics, immunosuppressives, and renal supportive care
Prevention through tick control and vaccination is far more effective than treating established nephritis

Welfare Considerations

Lyme nephritis causes severe, rapidly progressive kidney failure. Affected dogs experience nausea, weakness, edema, and systemic illness that quickly becomes profound. The welfare burden is significant and outcomes are often tragic despite aggressive treatment. This disease underscores the critical importance of tick prevention in endemic areas - preventing Lyme infection is infinitely preferable to managing its worst complications.

What You Can Do

Use reliable tick prevention year-round in Lyme-endemic areas
Vaccinate dogs against Lyme disease following annual risk assessment with your vet
Test annually for Lyme seropositivity and monitor for proteinuria in positive dogs
Seek urgent veterinary care for any Lyme-positive dog showing signs of kidney disease
Discuss the risk-benefit of C6 antibody quantitative testing for early detection