Valley Fever, also known by its different names such as San Joaquin Valley Fever, California disease, or desert rheumatism, is a fungal infection that affects both humans and animals, including dogs. This condition is caused by a soil-dwelling fungus found in certain desert regions. For pet owners in parts of Arizona, New Mexico, California, and even South America, this is a serious concern, especially in areas with desert climates.
While Valley Fever can lead to a range of symptoms in dogs, from mild discomfort to severe disease, it’s important to understand the disease fully. Pet owners should know that Valley Fever is not contagious between dogs or humans but is caused by inhaling fungal spores from the environment. Knowing the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for Valley Fever can help dog owners manage the condition and ensure their pets receive the appropriate care they need.
Let's explore what Valley Fever is, how it spreads, and how it affects dogs. We’ll also provide detailed information about diagnosing and treating the disease to ensure you have the knowledge to protect your pets.
What Is Valley Fever?
Valley Fever is a fungal infection caused by the soil-dwelling fungus Coccidioides immitis. The fungus is primarily found in desert regions of the Southwestern U.S., including parts of Arizona, and it thrives in dry, dusty environments. The condition occurs when dogs or humans inhale fungal spores from disturbed soil, leading to an infection that can affect various parts of the body, especially the lungs.
There are two main forms of the disease in dogs: primary Valley Fever and disseminated disease. In the primary disease, the infection is generally limited to the dog's lungs, causing symptoms such as coughing and weight loss. If the infection spreads to other parts of the body, it becomes disseminated, leading to more severe symptoms and affecting areas like the bones, nervous system, and joints. This can cause more serious illness in pets, especially senior dogs or those with a weak immune system.
Valley Fever is also known as San Joaquin Valley Fever or California disease because it was first discovered in California. However, it is prevalent in other areas with desert climates, including parts of Arizona, New Mexico, and even South America.
Where Is Valley Fever Found?
Valley Fever is commonly found in desert regions, particularly in the Southwestern United States. Parts of Arizona are particularly known for having a high rate of infection, but it is also prevalent in other desert regions, such as the San Joaquin Valley in California and parts of New Mexico. The fungi that cause Valley Fever thrive in dry, hot areas where the soil is easily disturbed by wind, construction, or other activities that release infectious spores into the air.
The disease can also be found in some parts of South America, where similar desert conditions exist. Dogs that live in or have a travel history to these areas are at a higher risk of developing Valley Fever, especially if they spend time outdoors where they may inhale fungal spores.
In these desert regions, both pets and humans are at risk of contracting Valley Fever. However, it’s important to note that the disease is not contagious from one animal to another or between humans and animals. It is only contracted through direct exposure to the fungal spores found in the soil.
How Do Dogs Get Valley Fever?
Dogs get Valley Fever by inhaling fungal spores from the soil. The spores are often found in areas where the soil is disturbed, such as construction sites, windy areas, or even during outdoor activities like hiking. Once the spores enter the dog's lungs, they can lead to infection. In most cases, the dog's immune system can fight off the infection before it becomes severe. However, some dogs, particularly those with a weak immune system, senior dogs, or very young puppies, may experience more serious symptoms.
Healthy dogs may not show symptoms immediately after exposure to the spores. In fact, many dogs that are exposed to Valley Fever never show any signs of illness because their immune systems are strong enough to handle the infection. However, in dogs with a weakened immune system, the spores can spread to other parts of the body, leading to disseminated disease, which can affect bones, the nervous system, and other organs.
The most common sign that a dog has been infected is the appearance of flu-like symptoms, such as coughing, weight loss, and a lack of appetite. However, without proper medical attention, the condition can worsen, leading to more severe complications.
How Is Valley Fever Spread?
Valley Fever is spread through the inhalation of fungal spores, which are released into the air when soil is disturbed. While the disease itself is not contagious between animals or humans, the fungal spores present in the environment can infect anyone who inhales them. This means that both pets and people in the same area may develop Valley Fever if they are exposed to the spores.
Areas where Valley Fever is common, such as parts of Arizona and other desert regions of the Southwestern U.S., are considered high-risk. Pet owners should take precautions when traveling to these regions or if they live in these areas. Preventing exposure to dust and disturbed soil can help reduce the risk of infection for pets.
Although Valley Fever can spread quickly through the environment, it is important to emphasize that a dog with Valley Fever cannot spread the disease to other dogs or humans. The spread is solely through environmental exposure to the fungal spores.
What Are the Symptoms of Valley Fever in Dogs?
The symptoms of Valley Fever in dogs can vary depending on whether the disease is in the early stages, confined to the lungs, or has spread to other parts of the body. In the early stages, the most common symptoms of primary Valley Fever include:
- Coughing
- Weight loss
- Lack of appetite
- Fever
- Lethargy
As the disease progresses, especially if it becomes disseminated and spreads to other parts of the body, dogs may show more severe symptoms such as:
- Lameness or swelling in joints
- Neurological symptoms if the nervous system is affected
- Severe weight loss
- Eye inflammation
- Skin lesions
Disseminated disease can cause significant discomfort and may lead to permanent damage if not treated. Senior dogs, ill dogs, and those with weak immune systems are particularly susceptible to the more severe forms of the disease. Pet owners should monitor their dogs closely for these signs and seek veterinary care if symptoms of Valley Fever are present.
How Is Valley Fever Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Valley Fever in dogs typically involves a combination of clinical examination, blood tests, and diagnostic testing to detect Valley Fever antibodies. Veterinarians may perform a Valley Fever test to determine if the dog’s immune system is producing antibodies to fight the infection. Blood tests may also show elevated white blood cell counts, which can indicate the presence of an infection.
In some cases, additional diagnostic testing, such as X-rays or imaging, may be used to check for the spread of the disease to other parts of the body. The severity of the illness and the dog's symptoms will guide the veterinarian in choosing the appropriate diagnostic methods.
A detailed travel history is also helpful in diagnosing Valley Fever, especially if the dog has recently been to areas known to have a high rate of infection, such as Arizona or New Mexico.
What’s the Treatment for Valley Fever?
The treatment for Valley Fever typically involves the use of antifungal medications. These medications help control the infection and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. The duration of treatment can be lengthy, often lasting several months, depending on the severity of the illness and how well the dog responds to the medication.
Common antifungal medications include fluconazole, itraconazole, and ketoconazole. While these medications are generally effective, they may have side effects, such as gastrointestinal upset, liver enzyme elevation, or loss of appetite. The veterinarian will monitor the dog’s condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed to minimize side effects and ensure the best outcome.
In severe cases, such as when the disease has spread to the nervous system or bones, the treatment may require a combination of antifungal medications and other supportive therapies to manage the symptoms and improve the dog's quality of life. Relapses can occur in some dogs, so regular check-ups and monitoring are essential for long-term management of the condition.
Contact Laveen Veterinarian Center
Valley Fever is a serious fungal infection that can significantly impact a dog's health, especially in areas with desert climates like Arizona and New Mexico. While it is not contagious, the disease is contracted through exposure to fungal spores found in the soil. Understanding the symptoms, how the disease spreads, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment can help pet owners protect their pets from this potentially severe illness.
At Laveen Veterinary Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for pets affected by Valley Fever and other health conditions. If you suspect your dog may have Valley Fever or if you live in a high-risk area, don't hesitate to contact us at (602) 559-9600 or schedule an appointment online for professional medical advice and appropriate treatment to ensure your pet's well-being.