Vets Warn Idaho Dog Owners About Nearby Deadly Fungal Infection

Along with the warmer May weather comes a potentially deadly threat to Idaho dog owners. Cases of a fungal infection in dogs have been reported, and the source is probably lying in your backyard in plain view.

The time of year when our dogs start to become more active outdoors has arrived. May brings warmer days when our beloved pets choose to go outside rather than nap on the floor next to the fireplace.

As an owner of three dogs myself, I pay close attention to where my animals are and what they're getting into throughout the day. The problem many dog owners have is that they have no idea what threats are lying in plain sight on the property, and to think a pile of leaves could kill our dogs isn't on most people's minds.

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Blastomycosis Is A Potentially Deadly Fungal Infection That Spreads Through Decomposing Property Matter

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Blastomycosis enters a dog's bloodstream from inhaling spores of the fungus Blastomyces dermatitis, according to the American Kennel Club. The spores commonly become airborne and are breathed in when an animal comes into contact with tainted soil, leaves, and rotting wood.

Spring is the most dangerous time of year for these types of pet infections due to months of wet weather and decaying trees, so it's recommended that old leaves and branches be burned or hauled away from yards. Symptoms of Blastomyces dermatitis in pets include cough, fever, lethargy, and difficulty breathing, according to the American Kennel Club.