Biliary is a serious and life-threatening disease that is more commonly known as ‘tick bite fever’. Biliary is especially common in regions such as South Africa where dogs tend to get more exposure to natural and wild environments where ticks are more prevalent. As a dog owner, it is essential that you are well-informed about the potential risk of biliary and know what to do should you find your dog affected by this disease. Since biliary has resulted in many cases of fatality, it is important to know how to quickly and effectively respond in such a situation.

How Do Dogs Get Biliary?

Biliary is a disease which impacts the liver and is caused by a tiny parasite known as Babesia Canis Rossi or B. Rossi. The B. Rossi parasite is carried and transmitted by way of a tick bite which then enters the bloodstream and targets the red blood cells. There are two types of ticks responsible for transmitting the B. Rossi parasite and these are the Yellow Dog Tick and the Kennel Tick. In order for the parasite to be transferred into the bloodstream; the tick must be attached to the dog for a minimum of 24 hours. If you ever find a tick on your dog, it is vital that you remove it immediately. 

What Are the Symptoms?

It can take between 1 – 2 weeks from the initial tick bite for the symptoms of biliary to begin to reveal themselves. Below are some warning signs to look out for:

  • Fatigue
  • Appetite loss
  • Fever
  • Pale gums
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Dark urine and yellow faeces

If you notice any changes in your dog’s behaviour or find that they are lacking the enthusiasm to eat or move as normal; seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Remedies & Treatments

Biliary is treated using various pharmaceutical medications and antibiotics as well as by procedures such as blood transfusions, drips, cortisone treatments etc. One of the best ways to ‘treat’ biliary is to take preventative measures so that you can protect your dog from acquiring the disease. It is important to regularly and thoroughly check your dog’s coat and bedding for ticks as well as to keep your garden from becoming over-grown. 

Keep your dog well-groomed and clean by washing them on a regular basis with one of the many anti-tick shampoos and products on the market. You can also ask your vet to provide you with anti-tick pills which can be administered once a month and which will build your dog’s immunity against biliary. 

An easy and effective way to keep ticks at bay is by attaching a tick repellent to your dog’s collar. The range of Tickless Pet Ultrasonic Tick Repellent accessories come in a variety of different colours and are completely safe and non-toxic. These devices are easily attached to your dog’s collar and release ultrasonic pulses that keep ticks and fleas at bay. These devices are able to impact ticks from a distance of 1.5 metres. 

Taking preventative action is the best way to care for your pets. Cases of biliary are especially common in South Africa and it is vital that dog owners take the necessary precautions to protect their dogs.