Canine diseases caused by fungi follow one of two forms: localized infections of the dog's membranes or his skin, or systemic infections involving larger portions of the dog's body, including his organs. These fungi exist naturally in the soil or organic substances and spread to animals by way of their mouths, open sores or inhalation of airborne spores.
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Membranes
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A dog's membranes may develop fungal diseases, which may cause inflammation and infection. Colitis is a common cause of diarrhea in dogs; some forms are due to a fungus infestation. Candida, a yeast fungus, may affect the intestines, also causing diarrhea. Fungus is a potential cause of pneumonia in dogs if it settles in the dog's lungs.
Skin
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Ringworm is a common fungal disease that attacks a dog's hair and hair follicles, causing a circular infestation. Allergic dermatitis may result from an allergic skin reaction to a fungus. In addition, the presence of yeast fungi may cause an ear infection in a dog or result in a cyst-type tumor, called a mycetoma.
Systemic Fungal Diseases
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Systemic types of fungal diseases are less common than other fungus infections, and they are more likely to strike dogs with compromised immune systems or dogs that are malnourished. Among the systemic fungal diseases are histoplasmosis, coccidiosis, cryptococcosis and blastomycosis. If your dog experiences unexplained symptoms of an infection, including fever, weight loss, chronic cough or lameness, your veterinarian may order a tissue biopsy or a fungal culture to test for the presence of a systemic fungal disease.
Reaction to Medication
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Antibiotics are used successfully to treat many bacterial infections, but the topical use of an antibiotic for a prolonged period may cause a condition called fungal keratitis, an inflammation in a dog's eye. Other yeast-type fungal infections, including ear infections, may occur after a round of oral antibiotic treatment.
Prevention/Solution
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Good hygiene practices are important when handling a dog with a fungal infection. Some fungal diseases, such as ringworm, are highly contagious to humans and other dogs. Anti-fungal medication may be prescribed for the treatment of an existing fungal infection.
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