Dogs & Valley Fever
Coccidioidomycosis is a condition that affects dogs, cats, livestock, and people and is known by several different names, including Valley Fever, desert rheumatism, San Joaquin Valley Fever, and California disease.
Valley Fever is caused by a pathogenic fungus called Coccidiodes immunities, which lives in the soil and thrives in dry, desert climates. In the US, Coccidiodes immitis can be found in the low desert regions of New Mexico, Texas, California, and most especially Arizona.
Our vets at South Novato Animal Hospital sometimes see Valley Fever in dogs. Cats can also be afflicted with the disease. It is estimated that for about every 50 dogs with Valley Fever, one cat will have it.
It is important to seek veterinary assistance if your dog shows signs of Valley Fever. Left untreated, your pup may require same-day veterinary care, and the disease can become fatal.
How Dogs Contract Valley Fever
Dogs and cats develop Valley Fever when they breathe in Coccidiodes immitis fungal spores. In dogs, these spores can turn into round structures inside the lungs.
In dogs with a strong and healthy immune system, the body can 'wall off' the spherules, preventing symptoms from developing. This means that the pet may have the condition but have no symptoms of Valley Fever, which is known as being asymptomatic.
If your dog is very young, old, or has a compromised immune system, the spherules will likely continue to grow until they eventually burst, releasing hundreds of endospores that can spread throughout the lungs and other parts of your pet's body where the cycle will begin again and the condition will become increasingly severe.
Is Valley Fever contagious?
Valley Fever is not contagious between dogs or other pets, and can only be contracted through the inhalation of spores.
Signs of Valley Fever in Dogs
In the earliest stages of the disease, when the spherules are contained within the lungs, signs of Valley Fever in dogs typically include:
- Dry cough
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Fever
Once the fungal spores have reached other parts of your dog's body, the signs of Valley Fever may become more severe and may include:
- Weight loss
- Persistent fever
- Painful, swollen joints
- Eye inflammation
- Blindess
In rare, severe cases, Valley Fever can lead to seizures if the fungus reaches the brain. If your dog is displaying signs of Valley Fever, it's essential to seek same-day veterinary care as quickly as possible to avoid serious complications for your pup's health.
Treating Valley Fever in Dogs
Treatment options for dogs with Valley Fever typically include antifungal medication, and treatment typically lasts at least 6-12 months. If the condition continues to spread through the body, your dog may need to be on this medication for the rest of their life.
Is valley fever curable in dogs?
The prognosis for dogs diagnosed with Valley Fever depends on the severity of the condition and other factors such as your pup's age and overall health.
The Prognosis for Dogs With Valley Fever
When diagnosed and treated early, many dogs recover well from Valley Fever. Dogs diagnosed with Valley Fever after the disease has spread to other parts of the body are more challenging to treat, and in some cases, the disease becomes life-threatening.How to Prevent Valley Fever in Dogs
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself and your pet from contracting Valley Fever. These include:
- Avoiding non-landscaped areas and limiting your dog's roaming to well-kept parks
- Taking walks in paved areas and keep your dog on a leash
- Avoiding desert areas if your dog likes digging
- Keeping your dog inside as much as possible during the summer if you live in a desert area
- Learning to recognize the signs of Valley Fever and contact your vet immediately if your dog exhibits any symptoms
Vaccinating Your Dog Against Valley Fever
A vaccine is available to immunize your dog against Valley Fever. This will make it much safer for your pooch to roam in your yard and other dog-safe outdoor areas.
If you live in an area where the condition is common, it’s best to vaccinate your pup on the recommended schedule—likely once or twice a year after the initial dose and booster. There are minimal side effects, and the vaccine is expected to be approved for manufacture within the year.
Even if you don’t live in an area where Valley Fever is common, it’s important to stay aware of any changes that could happen over time. Climate change increases the rate of infection among dogs, which can make it necessary to have your dog vaccinated in the future.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.