All dog owners need to read this submission. 

Blastomycosis, a rare, deadly fungal infection in dogs has been found in Addison and Chittenden counties. Our dog has it and his life is in the balance. 

Blastomycosis was found primarily in the Midwest and South, but BEVS (Burlington Emergency & Veterinary Specialists) reports an uptick in cases in our area. Blastomycosis typically occurs when the dog inhales the airborne fungus of Blastomyces dermatitidis after the contaminated soil has been disturbed (i.e. digging in the dirt). It thrives in wet conditions such as riverbanks, lakes, and swamps but also forests and farms. Typically, it occurs in large breed, sporting dogs, male, 2-4 in years of age. Because it hasn’t been seen here, local vets might not be looking for it. The common symptoms are similar to other infections: fever, loss of appetite, vomiting and joint pain — but what sets it apart are skin lesions filled with pus, eye inflammation, and difficulty breathing. 

If our dog lives, his left eye will have to be removed due to the inflection. Ask your vet to rule it out if a constellation of these symptoms occur and share this information with others.

Doug Engel

Weybridge