All it takes is one bite.

Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, sand flies, lice and mites can spread diseases to humans, dogs and other animals. The chart below highlights some common vector-borne diseases and conditions caused by these pests.

VECTOR	DISEASE/CONDITION	SIGNS
Anemia (Especially in young pets) Pale Gums, Weakness Tapeworm disease Rough Coat, Weight Loss Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) Inflammation, Rash, Severe Itching, Hair Loss
Lyme disease Swollen Joints, Fever, Anorexia, Lethargy, Lameness Rocky Mountain spotted fever Fever, Anorexia, Muscle and Joint Pain, Trouble Breathing, Neurological Signs, Swelling of Face and/or Legs Ehrlichiosis/ Anaplasmosis Fever, Fatigue, Swollen Lymph Nodes, Edema, Depression, Loss of Stamina, Stiffness, Lethargy Babesiosis Lethargy, Weakness, Pale Gums, Weight Loss, Emaciation, Coughing, Labored Breathing, Fever Tick Paralysis Gradual Paralysis (usually starts in hind legs) Hepatozoonosis Fever, Anorexia, Weight Loss, Bloody Diarrhea, Muscle Pain, Progressive Debilitation
Heartworm disease Coughing, Difficulty Breathing, Weight Loss, Kidney or Liver Failure in Severe Cases West Nile virus Fever, Disoriented, Lethargy, Head Tilt, Weakness, Ataxia
Leishmanisis Fever, Hair Loss, (especially around eyes), Weight Loss, Skin Sores, Nosebleeds, Lameness, Diarrhea and Liver or Renal Failure
Severe dermatitis Severe Itching, Scruffy Dry Coat (with bald patches), Shedding, Crusting and Scaling Tapeworm disease Rough Coat, Weight Loss Anemia Pale Gums, Weakness
Profuse Scaling Dermatitis (Cheyletiella) Severe Itching and Dandruff Rash (walking dandruff)

Ask your veterinarian which diseases are common where you live. You may also want to talk to your veterinarian before going on vacation; this will ensure your dog is protected against parasites and potential disease transmission while you travel.