Dog owners are gearing up to head outdoors with spring on the horizon, but it’s essential to understand the health issues your pet may face. Blastomycosis is a commonly overlooked animal care issue that’s easily prevented. Below is a complete guide to ensure you take the necessary precautions with your pet.

Everything You Need to Know About Blastomycosis

What Is Blastomycosis?

Blastomycosis is a fungal infection that occurs when dogs inhale or touch fungal spores. The fungi Blastomyces dermatitidis thrives in decaying wood, soil, and around lakes and other bodies of water—all areas dogs love to play come spring. Sporting dogs are at the highest risk because they’re more likely to play in these areas or dig up the fungus.

What Are the Symptoms?

Once the spores settle in, they can create a respiratory infection. Initial symptoms include:

• Coughing, wheezing, and trouble breathing
• Eye inflammation and discharge
• Skin lesions
• Fever
• Unexplained weight loss

It’s vital to understand these symptoms may not manifest for weeks. When untreated, the disease will spread through the bloodstream to the brain, eyes, lymph nodes, and soft tissue. In extreme cases, blastomycosis leads to glaucoma, heart complications, and chronic breathing issues.

How Is It Treated?

Animal care professionals will diagnose blastomycosis by examining the cells in skin lesions or your dog’s windpipe. If they detect the fungi, they’ll prescribe an antifungal medication to apply at home. Dogs that receive lung inflammation or damage may require oxygen treatment while recovering. If the infection has caused severe lung damage, the animal care professional may want to remove the damaged area surgically.

Ways to Prevent It

You can prevent blastomycosis by monitoring what your dog is doing around lakes and wooded areas. The fungus usually rests in dark areas that receive little sunlight, and may become airborne more easily during dry weather. Keep an eye on your dog and ensure they don’t root through shaded areas or where there’s decaying wood.

Spring is a great time to schedule an animal care exam, and the team at Hayward Animal Hospital will assist you. This Hayward, WI, veterinary clinic welcomes pets of all ages. They provide everything from cat and dog vaccinations to dental care, animal surgery, and pet boarding. Explore these offered services on their website. Call (715) 634-8971 to schedule an exam and connect on Facebook for more pet care tips.