"Anyone who has spent any time in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, southern Nevada, much of California or the northern Mexican states needs to know about valley fever. It’s caused by the fungus Coccidioides, which is found in the soil of areas with low rainfall, high summer temperatures and moderate winter temperatures. The fungal spores become airborne when the soil is disturbed by wind, construction, farming and other activities, including digging. Infection occurs in humans and other mammals when the spores are inhaled."

Dr. Hehn's Take

Given that I live in Arizona, I diagnose dogs with "Valley Fever" or Coccidioides immitis every single week. The most common symptoms are decreased energy or lethargy, decreased appetite, coughing, or limping. Sometimes we see dogs with neurologic symptoms such as neck pain or even seizures. It is treated most often with fluconazole and diagnosed with an antibody blood test, and sometimes x-rays. During this time of year with the dust storms and monsoons, it seems we see it even more frequently. If you or your pets live in or visit the southwest, this is a disease to take note of. It is not contagious unless there are draining skin wounds, and currently there is no preventative. 

Read the full Article from animalwellnessmagazine.com

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