Summit Veterinary Care is more than a veterinary clinic—we’re a community of animal lovers dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care. By combining advanced medicine with Fear Free Certified techniques, we strive to make each visit as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Keeping pets safe from preventable illnesses is one of our top priorities. One disease that has become increasingly common in Virginia is Lyme disease, a tick-borne illness that can cause serious health problems in dogs — and sometimes even humans.

What is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged (deer) tick. Dogs exposed to ticks can develop a range of symptoms, from mild to severe.

Common signs include:

• Fever
  
• Lethargy
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Joint pain or stiffness
  
• Swelling in joints (lameness that can shift from leg to leg)
  
• Rarely, kidney issues (especially in genetically susceptible breeds)
  

Because symptoms can be subtle or intermittent, many cases go undiagnosed without testing.

Lyme Disease Vaccination

• The Lyme vaccine protects dogs from infection by stimulating their immune system to recognize and fight the bacteria.
  
• It is recommended for dogs at risk of tick exposure, especially those who spend time outdoors in wooded or grassy areas. Most dogs in Northern Virginia should receive the Lyme vaccination due to the high tick population in our area.
  
• Vaccination is usually combined with tick prevention products such as Bravecto, Simparica, or Revolution Plus for the most complete protection.
  

Vaccination Schedule

• Puppies and dogs with no prior Lyme vaccination: Two initial doses, 2–4 weeks apart
  
• Adult dogs with prior vaccination: Annual booster recommended for continued protection

Your veterinarian will help determine whether your dog’s lifestyle and local tick prevalence make Lyme vaccination a priority.

Why Vaccination Matters

1. Prevents serious illness: Lyme disease can lead to painful arthritis, kidney disease, and other complications.
   
2. Reduces risk of infection: Combined with tick prevention, vaccination dramatically lowers the chance your dog contracts Lyme disease.
   
3. Protects your pet and family: Fewer infected ticks in your environment means lower risk for all pets and humans in the household.
   

At Summit Veterinary Care

We take a personalized approach to canine vaccination. Lyme disease prevention is tailored to your dog’s risk factors, including outdoor activity, geographic location, and exposure to wildlife.

By combining vaccination with year-round tick prevention, we give your dog the best protection possible — keeping them healthy, active, and safe.