Vector-Borne Diseases and Household Pets: A One Health Perspective

Lyme

About The Event

This webinar explores the critical intersection of vector-borne diseases affecting both household pets and their human companions through a One Health framework. Led by Dr. Erin Lashnits, a veterinary infectious disease expert and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, participants will gain comprehensive knowledge about the risks associated with infections transmitted by ticks and fleas. Dr. Lashnits will provide pet owners with practical guidance on recognizing vector-borne diseases, including Bartonella and Lyme disease, in cats and dogs, and implementing effective protection strategies.

The presentation delves into the complex relationships between vectors and the pathogens they carry, examining both their biological characteristics and epidemiological significance. Drawing from her extensive research background in zoonotic vector-borne diseases among underserved veterinary populations, Dr. Lashnits offers unique insights into how these infections impact animal health while presenting potential risks to human well-being. This integrative approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of animal and human health, providing attendees with actionable knowledge to protect both their pets and families from these increasingly prevalent diseases.

About The Presenter

Erin Lashnits, DVM, Ph.D., DACVIM (SAIM), is a Clinical Assistant Professor in Small Animal Internal Medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. She received her M.S. in biology from Stanford University, DVM from Cornell University, and Ph.D. in comparative biomedical sciences from North Carolina State University. She spent a few years in general practice and emergency medicine before completing her internal medicine residency at NC State University. Dr. Lashnits’s current research focuses on the epidemiology of zoonotic vector-borne diseases and other infectious diseases affecting underserved veterinary populations in a One Health context.

About The Host

Olivia Abrams is the CEO and Co-Founder of TiCK MiTT, a non-toxic tick removal product for people and pets. Diagnosed with Lyme disease at 8 years old, Olivia is still discovering how the complexities of the disease relate to her own health. The experience has led her on a mission to reduce cases of tick-borne illnesses by teaching individuals the importance of safe tick protection.

About The Sponsors

Project Lyme

Our mission is to eradicate the epidemic of tick-borne diseases through awareness and education, support of cutting-edge science, and advocacy for solutions to end the suffering. As a national Lyme disease non-profit, we aim to impact patients’ lives through our work.