South Bend veterinarians see increase in Lyme disease cases

SOUTH BEND — Some South Bend veterinarians are seeing more animals with Lyme disease in their clinics.

Animals can get the disease from ticks.

The South Bend Animal Clinic says that so far this year, 19 dogs have tested positive for the disease.

"The biggest factors why we're seeing an increase is the ticks that carry Lyme disease are becoming more prevalent," said Dr. Jeff Buchs.

Symptoms of Lyme disease in animals include swollen joints, fever, low appetite and general sluggishness.

The doctor recommends yearly screenings to check pets for the disease.