Histoplasmosis In Dogs: Prevention, Signs, And Treatment

Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by a specific type of fungus in dogs. Dogs in certain parts of the country are at a higher risk of contracting histoplasmotic infections. Owners of at-risk dogs should know prevention, signs and treatment methods to help their pets stay healthy. Histoplasmogenesis in dogs is caused by inhaling spores which travel through the trachea and into the lungs. Once the spores multiply, histoplasmsosis infection results. When dogs aren't feeling well, they typically have a decrease in appetite or total lack of appetite. This can lead to weight loss, as the amount of food consumed can't keep up with the calories burned. If the infection is in the lungs, it can cause coughing and labored breathing. Dogs with high exposure to spores from warm, moist soil can develop histoplasma if they inhale the spores. Histopasmosis can also occur when dogs ingest infected substances. If your dog lives in a high-risk area, your doctor will likely begin testing to determine if this fungal infection is the cause. Blood and urine screening along with X-rays will be done. If other diseases are ruled out, cytology or histopathology tests will be performed from certain tissues or fluids that may be affected. The prognosis for dogs with histoplasia depends on the severity of the infection. Dogs diagnosed with infections limited to the airways typically do better than dogs with systemic infections. Dogs are less likely to recover when they have other health issues before they encounter the fungus. The best way to prevent histoplasticosis is to limit your dog's exposure to areas at high risk for containing this fungus. Older dogs that frequent these areas are more likely to come in contact with H. capsulatum spores. Owners can also talk to their veterinarians about what they can do to boost their dog's immune system. . .