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Dog fever, low platelets, positive protozoa: Could it be tick fever?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 5 months old

My dog was having fever 104.7 yesterday till today mor ing it was 104.5 now in the evening when i checked his fever was 101.4 and below are the attach reports blood reports so can you olease tell me by looming reports does he bas tick fever or not? His protozoa came positive so what this protozoa indicates and also platelets 1lakh

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on May 12th, 2018

Hello,
According to the attached diagnostic test results, Bruno tested positive for Babesia. Babesia is a red blood cell parasite that usually causes anemia but it can cause decreased platelets and kidney injury. I would advise you to discuss therapy with your veterinarian as soon as possible. The disease is treated with a couple of drugs but typically imidocarb.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 12th, 2018
Hello, Babesia can indeed be life threatening as it can cause severe anemia and sickness. Babesia is a parasite that affects red blood cells and it is transmitted through tick, particularly the Ixodes tick. Once infected, dogs may elicit a severe inflammatory response that can lead to other changed in the blood which includes low platelets.

Not all dogs that are infected with Babesia become sick. Some dogs can harbor the parasite without showing any symptoms. Signs of infection can include having pale gums, severe lethargy, panting, vomiting, weakness, and fainting.

Once your dog tested positive for the disease, your veterinarian may start medications to treat the Babesia. If Bruno is sick, he could need hospitalization and potentially a blood transfusion. Hope this helps and best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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