Desert Dangers in May: Valley Fever
As the Tucson Sun Warms, So Does the Risk of Valley Fever
This article is one of a three-part series designed to help pet owners prepare for the spring and summer seasons in the Arizona desert - we hope you find it helpful!
As the desert landscape blooms with the vibrant colors of May, it also brings with it some unique hazards for our furry companions. Here in the Tucson, AZ area / Sonoran Desert, we see an uptick in certain dangers that every pet owner needs to be aware of.
Today we’re diving into Valley Fever.
As your veterinarians at Orange Grove Animal Hospital, we see firsthand the impact this fungal infection, also known as coccidioidomycosis, can have on our beloved dogs and cats. It's crucial for pet owners in our region to be aware of the risks and the signs.
The Invisible Threat Lurking in Our Soil
The organism responsible for Valley Fever, a fungus called Coccidioides immitis, thrives in the alkaline soils of the Southwest desert. When this soil is disturbed – whether through digging, playing, or even just a strong breeze – microscopic spores can become airborne and inhaled by our pets (and even us!).
Recognizing the Varied Faces of Valley Fever
One of the trickiest aspects of Valley Fever is that its symptoms can be incredibly diverse, mimicking other illnesses. You might notice:
A persistent cough that doesn't seem to go away
Fever and a general lack of energy (lethargy)
A decrease in appetite
Lameness or stiffness in their limbs
Swollen lymph nodes
In some cases, a skin wound that just won't heal
Early Detection is Key: Our Recommendation
If your pet starts exhibiting any of these signs, especially if they've been enjoying more outdoor time, please don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Early diagnosis through blood tests can make a significant difference in the outcome of treatment.
A Marathon, Not a Sprint: Understanding Treatment
It's important for pet owners to understand that treating Valley Fever is typically a commitment. We often see surprised pet owners when we explain that treatment with antifungal medication usually lasts a minimum of six months. In some cases, pets may even require lifelong therapy to manage the infection effectively.
The good news is that these anti-fungal medications, usually administered as a pill once or twice daily, are generally well-tolerated. While pills are the most common form, we can explore other formulations through compounding pharmacies in certain situations if needed.
During treatment, we also recommend monitoring your pet's liver values at least annually. This can often be done during their regular check-ups to ensure they are tolerating the medication well.
The Ongoing Quest for a Vaccine
One of the questions we hear most frequently is about a vaccine for Valley Fever. While research is ongoing, a reliable vaccine is still in development, and we don't have a definitive release date to share at this time. Rest assured, we'll keep you informed of any progress in this area!
Not Contagious in the Traditional Sense
A common concern among Tucson pet owners is whether Valley Fever can spread between pets or to humans, and the short answer to this is no. It is believed that the fungus changes form once it infects the body and this form is not infectious to other animals or humans.
However, it's not uncommon to see multiple pets within the same household contract Valley Fever. This isn't due to direct transmission but rather because they likely share an environment where the fungal spores are present in the soil.
Protecting Your Furry Family
While we can't entirely eliminate the risk of Valley Fever in our desert environment, being aware of the signs and seeking prompt veterinary care are the best ways to protect your beloved pets. Let's work together to keep them healthy and happy as they enjoy all that our beautiful Tucson landscape has to offer.
If you have any questions or concerns about Valley Fever, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at Orange Grove Animal Hospital. We're always here to help!
