Will Falconer, DVM Moderator
Hi Jen,first, the majority of bone tumors are osteosarcoma, while HSA usually shows up in spleen or heart. The article you cited doesn't even mention the causative agent of Lyme, just a few others like Bartonella.
I'd still focus on the "terrain" vs fearing the tick, as we discussed. Building healthy resistance is never going to steer your dog into anything but vital health. As to safe tick preventatives, see my Non-Toxic Flea (and Tick) Control page. There's a good one there.