Below are the various dog diseases that are caused by fungal infection.
Ringworm. Ringworm is a major fungal infection that troubles dogs. Ringworm fungi live in dead skin tissues, nails, and hairs of dogs, particularly younger dogs. Its symptoms include: hair loss which usually appears in circular patches, hair loss patches that displays a crusty, dry look, hair loss on the head and legs and continuous scratching of the patchy areas.
Ringworm is very contagious to both animals and humans especially to children. You should ensure that your dog that is infected with ringworm is kept away from your kids and other household pets until the infection is fully treated. You should also practice proper hygiene by washing your hands very well after handling your infected pet to avoid further contamination. Typically, ringworm is treated by trimming or shaving the hair around affected areas, using fungicidal shampoos for bathing the dog, applying a topical antifungal medication, and lime sulphur dips.
Valley Fever. It is caused by a fungus called Coccidioides immitis and affects both animals and humans. This fungus is found in dry, arid soil; when dust is raised from that soil, the fungus is inhaled. Dogs that spend time around construction areas, dig frequently, or are out in the wind, are more susceptible to this disease. Young dogs and dogs with weakened immune systems are also prone to develop Valley Fever.
Coccidioides immitis fungus is difficult to diagnose and is sometimes mistaken for other fungal diseases, cancer, pneumonia, or Lyme disease. Its symptoms include harsh cough, fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, and seizures. If your dog is suspected to have Valley Fever, your vet may perform x-rays, blood tests, or antibody testing to help diagnose the disease.
Blastomycosis. It is another fungal disease which is usually found in both dogs and humans. In most cases, Blastomycosis is mainly caused by contact to damp soil containing organic matter with growing fungus. The fungus penetrates your dog’s system through wounds, or through inhalation. As it begins to thrive in your dog's body, it spreads to the lungs, the vascular system, or to the lymph nodes. Roaming dogs, hunting dogs and other dogs that are frequently exposed to outdoor activities are particularly at risk of acquiring Blastomycosis.
Indications that your pet may be suffering from this disease are: weight loss, chronic coughing, shortness of breath, skin lesions, red eyes, swollen eyes, excessive tearing of the eyes, clouding of the corneas, and loss of muscle tone. If your pet manifests any of these symptoms, you should consult your veterinarian for immediate treatment. Infected dogs that are treated at the earlier stages of the disease have better chances for a healthy recovery. If blastomycosis is left untreated, this can result to blindness or other serious health problems. Treatment of this disease includes drug therapy, and may include required several short hospitalizations. During treatment, ensure that your dog is given a diet that consists of high-quality food, and limit his exercise until he is completely well.
Aspergillosis. Aspergillosis is a fungal disease that usually affects the nasal cavity and respiratory system, before attacking the rest of the body. Dogs with long noses are most susceptible. Symptoms aspergillosis includes open sores around the nostrils, bloody or puss-filled nasal discharge, lethargy, weight loss, fever, and vomiting.
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