Lyme disease, caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi remains the primary tick borne pathogen affecting dogs and people in the UK. Human cases are increasing year by year and dogs have been found to be carrying ticks infected with B.burgdorferi. This article reviews the epidemiology of Lyme disease in the UK, zoonotic risk, diagnosis and treatment. It also discusses practical disease prevention and the role of veterinary nurses in advising pet owners in this respect.

Ian Wright -