What is babesiosis caused by?

Babesiosis is caused by an infection with a parasite, specifically protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. These parasites are typically transmitted to dogs through the bite of an infected tick. Once inside the host, they invade the red blood cells, leading to symptoms such as fever, anemia, and other systemic responses. Understanding that babesiosis is a parasitic infection is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment, as it guides veterinarians in implementing effective management strategies, including tick control measures and antiparasitic therapies. This knowledge helps in preventing the disease's spread and mitigating its impact on affected animals.