1. Open the application and start a chat with a certified vet.
2. Talk to the vet regarding the concern that is faced by your little one or have a regular chat about your pet’s health
3. You will be presented with a personalized plan for your pet as soon as the expert assesses your furry friend’s condition.

• Reduced stress: Pets often experience higher levels of stress and anxiety when visiting a traditional veterinary clinic due to the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells. CuddlyTails is an online platform that allows them to receive care from the comfort of their home environment, minimizing stress and potential complications.
• Video and photo consultation: CuddlyTails allows owners to share videos or photos of their pets, enabling the veterinarian to observe the pet’s behavior, mobility, and any potential issues in their familiar surroundings. This can provide valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment.
• Accessibility to specialists: CuddlyTails provides access to a network of specialists, who can offer expert guidance on caring for pets and addressing any unique challenges they may face.
• Personalized advice: Through consultations and detailed discussions with the owner, CuddlyTails can offer personalized advice on creating a safe and enriching environment for pets, including tips on litter box placement, feeding routines, and navigating the home.

Ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne infectious disease caused by bacteria from the Ehrlichia genus, primarily Ehrlichia canis. This disease affects dogs and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial for dog owners, especially in regions where ticks are prevalent.

Symptoms of Ehrlichiosis

Ehrlichiosis can present in three phases: acute, subclinical, and chronic.

1. Acute Phase: Symptoms typically appear 1 to 3 weeks after a tick bite and may include:
   • Fever
   • Lethargy
   • Loss of appetite
   • Swollen lymph nodes
   • Stiffness or reluctance to walk
   • Coughing or difficulty breathing
   • Bleeding disorders, such as nosebleeds or bruising
2. Subclinical Phase: In this phase, dogs may show no outward signs of illness but can still harbor the bacteria. Some dogs may clear the infection, while others may progress to chronic disease.
3. Chronic Phase: If the infection persists, dogs may experience more severe symptoms, including:
   • Weight loss
   • Severe lethargy
   • Persistent fever
   • Anemia and low platelet counts, leading to increased bleeding risks
   • Eye abnormalities and neurological issues, such as lack of coordination or partial paralysis

Causes and Transmission

Ehrlichiosis is primarily caused by Ehrlichia canis, which infects monocytes (a type of white blood cell). Other species, such as Ehrlichia ewingii, can also cause disease but are generally less severe. The disease is transmitted through the bites of infected ticks, particularly the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) and the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum). Ticks can transmit the bacteria within hours of attachment, making prompt removal essential.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing ehrlichiosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test often reveals low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) and anemia.
• Serology Tests: Antibody tests can indicate exposure to Ehrlichia, although they may remain positive even after successful treatment.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): This test detects the presence of the bacteria during the active phase of the infection.
• Blood Cultures: While definitive, this method can take weeks for results.

Treatment

Treatment for ehrlichiosis typically involves a course of antibiotics, with doxycycline being the most commonly prescribed. The treatment duration is usually 28 to 30 days, and most dogs respond well if the disease is caught early. In chronic cases, treatment may be prolonged, and supportive care, such as blood transfusions or medications for secondary infections, may be necessary.

Prevention

Preventing ehrlichiosis involves several strategies:

• Tick Prevention: Use tick control products, such as topical treatments or collars, to reduce the risk of tick bites.
• Regular Tick Checks: Inspect your dog for ticks after outdoor activities, especially in areas known for tick populations.
• Vaccination: While there is no specific vaccine for ehrlichiosis, keeping your dog healthy and their immune system strong can help reduce the risk of infection.