Blastomycosis in dogs primarily infects the lungs after spores are inhaled, but it quickly spreads throughout the body as a systemic infection. The fungus often migrates to the eyes, skin, lymph nodes, bones, and, less commonly, the brain or other organs, causing severe, multi-systemic illness.

What is the primary site of blastomycosis in dogs?

The most commonly affected organs include the lungs, eyes, bone, skin and neurologic system (brain, spinal cord). An infected dog could transmit blastomycosis to another animal through a bite, although this appears to be extremely rare. Infected dogs do not typically serve as a source of infection for other dogs.

How long does blasto last?

Infection with Blastomyces species is asymptomatic in up to 50 per cent of cases. Incubation periods between exposure and clinical disease are typically 2 weeks to 3 months (median 43 days). Rarely, an incubation period may last many months to years due to reactivation or latent infections.

How to get rid of blastomycosis in dogs?

Any age or sex of dog can be infected. Treatment Treatment of blastomycosis requires long-term antifungal medications (ie, average 2-6 months of therapy). Itraconazole or fluconazole are most commonly used. Some dogs may need to be hospitalized initially to help control some of their more severe symptoms.

What are the first signs of blasto in dogs?

Fever, depression, weight loss, and loss of appetite are also common clinical signs. Draining skin lesions are seen in many cases. Infection of the eyes may cause sudden blindness. Lameness, orchitis (testicular inflammation), seizures, coughing, enlarged lymph nodes, and a variety of other signs may occur.

Symptoms of #blastomycosis to watch for in you and your pets

What kills blasto?

Most people who have symptoms from blastomycosis will need treatment with prescription antifungal medication. The antifungal itraconazole is usually used to treat mild to moderate blastomycosis. Amphotericin B is usually recommended for severe blastomycosis.

How much does it cost to treat blastomycosis in dogs?

Veterinary Cost

Blastomycosis is an expensive disease to diagnose and treat. Lab work, x-rays, and biopsy can cost anywhere between $500-$1500. Long-term antifungal medication can also be expensive. The monthly cost, depending on the dog's size and dose, may be between $150-$750.

What kills blastomycosis?

How is blastomycosis treated? Providers treat blastomycosis with antifungal treatments, including amphotericin B (amB) and itraconazole. In some cases, they might also give you corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Can diet affect fungal infections in dogs?

Diets aimed at supporting a dog's skin or immune system may help to lessen the incidence of yeast infections by removing or disguising ingredients to which the dog is allergic and by improving the barrier function of the skin.

Can blasto go away on its own?

Although blastomycosis may go away on its own, doctors recommend that people with the condition receive medical treatment. This typically includes the antifungal medication itraconazole for mild to moderate cases, or amphotericin B in severe cases.

What to feed a dog with blastomycosis?

Avoid excessive time in the woods, especially near water (since blastomycosis is in the soil near water) Feed your dog foods containing no yeast. Give Vitamin C, E, A, and B as a supplement if your veterinarian recommends. Give garlic supplements if your veterinarian recommends.

What does blastomycosis look like on skin?

Common sites of cutaneous lesions of blastomycosis are face, neck, scalp, and upper limbs. These may look elevated, crusted, warty, plaque-like, or ulcer-like and can vary in size from a few millimetres to several centimetres. Early lesions can also appear as papules or pustules.

Is blastomycosis painful for dogs?

Symptoms of blastomycosis vary depending on which organs are affected. They can include coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, loss of appetite, joint pain and fever. Blastomycosis can also cause unexplained skin and eye problems and may result in blindness.

What is the #1 cause of death in dogs?

The leading cause of death in dogs overall is cancer, especially in older dogs, affecting about one in four dogs, with specific breeds like Golden Retrievers, Boxers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs being highly susceptible. However, causes vary significantly by age and breed, with younger dogs often dying from trauma, while older dogs and larger breeds face higher risks from organ system failures like neurological, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal issues.
 

Can a dog get blastomycosis twice?

Approximately 50-75% of dogs with blastomycosis recover. Dogs with advanced disease or other conditions are less likely to survive. Relapse of the infection can occur in some cases, so regular follow-up exams and testing are also very important.

How did my dog get a fungal infection?

The primary source of most infections is soil. Fungal infections can be acquired by inhalation, ingestion, or through the skin (for example, through a cut or wound).

What food can trigger fungal infection?

Sugary foods and beverages: These directly feed Candida, promoting its growth. Refined carbohydrates: Like sugary foods, refined carbs can cause Candida to grow too much. Dairy products: High in lactose, they can cause yeast infections in some people.

Why are dogs not supposed to eat potatoes?

Dogs should never eat raw potatoes as they contain a substance called solanine which is potentially toxic to dogs. However, the levels of solanine are reduced when the potatoes are cooked (so long as they aren't boiled) which is why it's always best to roast them before offering a bite to your pet.

Where is blastomycosis most commonly found?

It is most common around the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys, Great Lakes, Saint Lawrence River, and western United States. The fungus also lives in Canada and a small number of blastomycosis cases have been reported from Africa and India.

How to prevent blasto?

Reducing risk

In areas where Blastomyces is common in the air, it may not be possible to avoid exposure. People who have weakened immune systems should consider avoiding activities that involve disrupting soil. Some ways to help reduce risk include: Stay inside in windy, dusty conditions.

How to prevent blastomycosis in dogs naturally?

While it's hard to completely prevent blastomycosis, there are things you can do to lower your dog's risk. Try to keep them away from areas where the fungus might live, especially if you're in a place known for this infection.

What if I can't afford chemo for my dog?

If you can't afford dog chemo, explore financial aid from pet charities (like The Magic Bullet Fund, The Pet Fund), ask your vet about payment plans or less costly alternatives, consider options like CareCredit/Scratchpay, look into vet schools or low-cost clinics, or research crowdfunding/clinical trials; if treatment isn't feasible, discuss quality of life and humane euthanasia with your vet, potentially surrendering the pet to a shelter if necessary.
 

Is it worth putting a dog through chemo?

Dog chemotherapy is often worth it for extending comfortable life and improving quality of life, not typically curing cancer, with goals focused on minimizing side effects and maximizing happy time with your pet, though it's a case-by-case decision involving the specific cancer, dog's health, cost, and owner's emotional capacity, requiring close consultation with a veterinary oncologist. Many owners find the extra time and improved vitality worth the financial and emotional investment, as dogs generally tolerate chemo better than humans, but outcomes vary. 

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