Biliary, also called tick bite fever (Bosluiskoors in Afrikaans), is a deadly disease caused by a parasite (Babesia). Ticks spread this parasite when they bite dogs, cats, and horses. It destroys red blood cells, leading to anemia, organ damage, and even death if not treated quickly.
🛑 Biliary is one of the most common deadly diseases in dogs in Southern Africa.
It is similar to malaria in humans, but instead of mosquitoes, ticks spread the disease.
Early treatment by a vet can save 85–90% of dogs.
The parasite can damage:
Severe cases may need intensive and expensive treatment, and sadly, up to 30% of complicated cases do not survive.