New Jersey is a hotspot for many things - such as Jersey diners, tomatoes, and beaches - but also, unfortunately, for Lyme Disease. In the Northeast one in ten dogs will be diagnosed with Lyme Disease and each year between 10,000 and 20,000 cases of Lyme seropositivity is shown on Lyme tests. As untreated Lyme Disease can become very difficult to treat, testing for the presence of Lyme is essential.    

If your pet tests positive for Lyme Disease, what are the treatment options? The conventional protocol for treating Lyme is a course of the antibiotic doxycycline. If doxycycline is not well tolerated, there are other antibiotic options for pets. While doxycycline can be a cornerstone of treatment, it also has both pros and cons. Doxycycline can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, and can irritate the esophagus if not taken with water. In addition, it can cause sensitivity to sunlight for dogs with lighter pigmentation and, as with all antibiotics, it can upset the gut flora or helpful bacteria in the gut that is essential for a strong immune system.   

An integrative approach to a positive Lyme Disease test could include protocols to minimize these side effects or to help eradicate the virus in the body and strengthen the overall immune system in conjunction with antibiotics or on their own. Here are some of the most common integrative treatment protocols used for Lyme:   

  • Ozone Therapy

Ozone therapy is a powerful tool in Lyme Disease treatment as ozone oxygenates the blood, boosts immune system function, has antimicrobial effects to fight infection, and can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Ozone therapy is administered through an IV.   

  • IV Vitamin C Therapy

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and when introduced intravenously can provide strong immune system support and help to reduce inflammation. It works well in conjunction with Ozone Therapy.   

  • Acupuncture

By stimulating different points in the body, acupuncture can help boost the immune system response, reduce inflammation, relieve joint pain, and support the proper functioning of the nervous system.   

  • Herbal and Medicinal Supplements

A number of herbal remedies have proven to be helpful in boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation, including Cat’s Claw and medicinal mushrooms. TCVM (Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine) is also useful for joint pain and immune function improvement.   

  • Cold Laser Therapy

Cold Laser Therapy can work to reduce inflammation and is particularly helpful with the joint pain and swelling that can come with Lyme Disease.    

If your pet has Lyme Disease, explore the wide range of options for treatment to help maximize healing and recovery. At Longevity Veterinary Center we offer all of these conventional and integrative treatments for Lyme Disease to ensure that your pet has the best possible care options. Not sure if your pet has Lyme? Our comprehensive Lyme Disease tests for Lyme and co-infections and is $50 Off during the month of August 2025. Call to schedule your pet's test at (973) 606-1101.