Dogs Blastomycosis
Owner's Guide to Blastomycosis in Dogs
Author: D Swain
Blastomycosis in dogs is a fungal disease. It usually originates in the lungs then spreads to other parts of the
body. This condition can easily be misdiagnosed because it causes symptoms similar to a viral infection or cancer.
You may be wondering how your dog can be affected by this fungus.
Cause
The fungus responsible for this disease grows in moist soil or decaying vegetation. When the soil or vegetation is
disturbed, fungus spores are released into the air. Your dog can inhale these spores into their lungs. You should
also watch out because these spores can also infect humans.
Symptoms
As stated already, blastomycosis in dogs is commonly mistaken for other diseases such as valley fever, lyme
disease, cancer, or a viral infection. Symptoms include loss of appetite, fever, and lethargy. Your dog may also
develop lesions on his nose or paws.
One of the more serious signs of this disease is sudden blindness. If your dog loses his vision because of this
illness, he may never regain it. Since the fungus usually infects the lungs initially, dogs also commonly develop
respiratory problems as the disease progresses. All of these symptoms can advance rapidly and may be fatal if not
diagnosed and treated soon enough.
Diagnosis
This fungal disease has to be detected by analyzing tissue or fluid samples. A sample can be taken from a lesion,
coughed up fluid, or a swollen lymph node. After the fluid or tissue sample has been taken, the veterinarian will
have to analyze them under a microscope.
Treatment
If your dog has been diagnosed with blastomycosis, he will have to start taking anti-fungal medication. This
medication will be given orally for at least three months. Most dogs can usually stop taking anti-fungal drugs
after six months, but some have to continue treatment for a longer period of time.
About the
Author:
In addition to blastomycosis there are many other conditions that can affect your dog such as canine bordetella. Any responsible owner should want to know
the causes and symptoms of some of these conditions in case they affect your dog. Dog-illnesses.com provides all of
the information you need about a wide range of diseases. So, stop by right now to learn about some of these
illnesses like canine lymphosarcoma.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Owner's Guide
to Blastomycosis in Dogs
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