12/06/2025
A new disease, Rickettsia finnyi, spread by tick bites has been identified in dogs by researchers from North Carolina State University (NCSU). NCSU researchers believe the new bacteria may be associated with the lone star tick. The new species is named R. finnyi after Finny, the first dog they found carrying the disease.
“By naming it after an individual dog, we wanted to honor all companion dogs that have contributed to the discovery of new pathogens that could cause serious illness in both dogs and humans,” Qurollo says.
At least three of the dogs identified in the study died from the disease. While one passed away before receiving treatment, one died a day after starting antibiotics, and another passed away after treatment was completed.
While this disease has not been found in humans, it is unclear if anyone is even looking for this new pathogen.
Link in comment below ⬇️
