Dogs have an instinct to put things in their mouths, or even eat things they shouldn't. Sometimes if a dog eats the wrong thing or comes into contact with mold in some other way, fungal diseases can develop. Most fungal infections are either air borne or reside in the soil.
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Types
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The main types of fungal illnesses that affect dogs are aspergillosis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis and valley fever. Aspergillosis tends to affect young dogs with long snouts. Cryptococcosis is found in fowl droppings. Histoplasmosis is non-contagious and is commonly found in the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys, and the Appalachian Mountains. Blastomycosis festers in moist, acidic locations with an abundance of decaying vegetation. Valley fever is usually found in dry areas such as the southwestern U.S. and northern Mexico.
Significance
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According to Mold-Survivor, healthy dogs often fight off fungal illnesses before they have a chance to develop. Dogs with weak immune systems may have trouble, causing symptoms to appear and the dog to seem unwell. A dog that acts under the weather for more than 24 hours should see a vet for a check-up.
Symptoms
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Aspergillosis symptoms include organ lesions (especially the eye), nasal discharge, sneezing and lethargy. Cryptococcosis affects the dog's eyes, skin, respiratory tract and central nervous system. Histoplasmosis causes weight loss, diarrhea, fever, anemia, cough and respiratory problems. Some blastomycosis symptoms are dry, harsh coughing, blood in the urine, enlarged bronchial lymph nodes, fever and nasal discharge. Valley fever causes the lymph nodes to swell and the dog to develop a dry cough, depression, breathing problems, weight loss, decreased appetite and lethargy.
Identification
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Fungal infections in dogs are diagnosed using organism cultures, microscopic identification and serology. Be sure to tell your vet about all of your dog's symptoms, as well as the places you have recently been where it could have picked up an infection.
Prevention/Solution
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Many mold-related illnesses in dogs can be avoided by keeping the dog in a clean, healthy environment. Changing the dog's water frequently prevents mold spores from growing, as does keeping the dog's immediate environment clean. Feeding a healthy diet and tending to your dog's exercise needs helps keep its immune system strong and able to fight off illness.
Warning
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Certain fungal infections such as cryptococcosis, blastomycosis and valley fever can cause blindness in dogs if left untreated. Catching the illness early often prevents the disease from developing to such an extreme level.
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