Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog has Lyme disease, no improvement, and swollen legs. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 11 years and 3 months old | 80 lbs

Hi, my 11 year old female dog was recently diagnosed with Lyme disease. She has a fever, blood shot eyes that has a green discharge. All four legs are consistently swollen from hip to toe with red feet. She can barely stand and is lethargic. She has been on medication for 3 full days and today is the 4th and is showing no signs of improvement. Is this normal for lymes? Should she see her vet again in the morning? Why are her legs so swollen all the way down to her feet? Any insight would help.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 2nd, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Loki. I recommend that she sees an emergency veterinarian today if possible. If not, then she must be seen first thing in the morning. While the swelling is not common, it may be due a complication of Lyme disease knowns as vasculitis. Blood vessels can become leaky due to inflammation and cause swelling of the limbs. Continue her medications as directed. Encourage her to eat and drink normally. I hope this information helps!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored