Written by Joyce Harman, DVM

Lyme is constantly on my mind here in Virginia as spring begins and I start finding ticks. Every year we learn more about it, yet I keep hearing the same information: the ticks have to be on for 24-48 hours (reality–just have to bite) and that Lyme does not exist in my area (guess what–now birds have been shown to carry it and they fly a long way). So it's important to stay Lyme-aware and keep up with the latest information. Here is a quick rundown of Lyme facts. Be safe out there and enjoy the spring weather.

The organism

• The Lyme spirochete (Borrelia burgdorferi) is a corkscrew-shaped bacteria
• The life cycle involves various tick species involved depending on the location
• Hosts include many small mammals: white-footed mouse (northeast) to the chipmunk, hedgehog, squirrels and rats, along with humans and dogs
• Birds are identified now as carriers, and they travel far, spreading Lyme
• Fleas, spiders, mosquitoes, and mites are also possible parts of the life cycle, though the available research has not defined their exact role
• The tiny nymph stage ticks are the source of most infections while the adult tick, which is a little larger and easier to see, may be less important but still potentially infective
• It’s outer surface protein adapts to the hosts own immune system

 Symptoms and diagnosis

• Most common sign subtle variable lameness or arthritis
• Other signs: anterior uveitis, neurologic signs, low grade fever, sensitivity to touch, lameness, weight loss, tremors, neck pain, lethargy and laminitis
• Almost always usually some degree of behavior change, from depressed to violently spooky
• Laboratory diagnosis can be inconclusive, but can be helpful

 Treatment

• No magic bullet in treating chronic LD cases. Best is a combination, with emphasis on the immune system
• Antibiotics can be useful especially in a freshly diagnosed horse
• Western or Chinese herbal preparations can be effective for immune and pathogen treatment and for prevention
• Herbal and antibiotic therapy should be rotated at least monthly to avoid resistance
• Probiotics are an absolute necessity and should continue to be fed for many months after antibiotic therapy is finished
• Vitamin C for the immune system and the collagen (4-6 grams twice a day)
• Noni fruit leather is an herb that supports the immune system and has excellent anti-inflammatory properties
• Omega-3 fatty acids: anti-inflammatory, support the immune system–whole flaxseed, hemp or Chia seeds, or Omega 3 oils
• Medicinal mushrooms support the immune system
• Joint supplements are important include glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, glycosaminoglycans, herbal preparations
• Hemp with cannabinoids (CBD) in oil or powder form support the immune system, support healthy joint function  
• Homeopathics can be used based on symptoms
• Acupuncture is excellent for pain control, immune stimulation

 Management

• Avoid stress or support the horse with adaptogenic herbs during stress
• Use care with immune system stress, including vaccination
• Topical essential oils and various insect repellant sprays need to be applied frequently
• Slippery sprays (Tick-Slick) keeps ticks from biting
• Long term immune and stress support prevent recurrences and help healing