What should you know about valley fever in dogs?

Coccidioides fungi live in certain dry soils. Digging, running, or wind can disturb soil and allow spores to be inhaled. A dog may develop coughing, fever, low energy, reduced appetite, weight loss, or fast breathing. In some dogs the infection can affect bones, joints, skin, or the nervous system, leading to lameness, swelling, skin lesions, seizures, or unusual behaviour. Dogs do not normally pass valley fever to people or other dogs.

Contact a veterinarian if your dog has ongoing cough, fever, lameness, weight loss, or marked tiredness, especially after living in or visiting a dusty region. The veterinarian may use an examination, imaging, and laboratory tests to assess the infection. Treatment can require a prolonged course of prescription antifungal medicine and follow-up. Give medicine exactly as directed and report vomiting, poor appetite, or other concerning changes.

Seek urgent veterinary care for laboured breathing, collapse, blue or grey gums, repeated seizures, inability to walk, or sudden severe weakness. Do not wait for a routine appointment if breathing changes quickly or your dog cannot keep water down. Keep activity calm while arranging help.

Could the symptoms fit a fungal infection or another condition? Which tests are needed? How long might treatment and monitoring take? What changes should prompt an urgent call?