What if my dog’s nose has a fungal infection?
Are you worried about your dog getting a fungal infection in his nose? This guide will help you learn more about aspergillosis, including warning signs and symptoms to look out for.
Aspergillosis is a common fungus found in certain parts of the country. When inhaled, it can cause a fungal infection in a dog’s nasal cavity and sinuses. It can also develop into a disseminated fungal infection, where the infection spreads outside the nasal cavity. This infection can be very difficult to detect, but early detection and treatment are essential as this can be a harmful disease.
The ways in which dogs are most commonly affected by fungal infections
This fungal infection can develop in any dog ​​breed or age but the youngest dogs, seven years of age or younger, and those with already weakened immune systems are most at risk. Some breeds, such as Shepherds and Collies, are more prone to this type of infection. Because this infection develops as a result of inhaling fungi, it most commonly affects dogs with moderate to long snouts.
Signs and symptoms of fungal infections in dogs
If you think your dog has a fungal infection, you may start to notice several telltale signs. Below is a checklist you may use to monitor your dog so your vet will have the most comprehensive information possible when treating him.
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- sneeze
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- Pain in the nose area
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- Swelling in the nose area
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- Anorexia
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- Long-lasting nasal secretions that may contain blood, mucus, or pus
If the infection spreads, you may notice other symptoms, such as:
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- limp
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- Pain in the spine
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- Fever
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- Weight loss
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- Anorexia
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- vomiting
Diagnosing a fungal infection in a dog
Once you’ve completed the checklist, print it out and take it to your vet so you can discuss your dog’s health with the vet. Your vet will perform a complete physical examination of your pet and review its medical history, including asking you to recount the onset of symptoms.
If the fungal infection is in the nose, your vet may also take nasal swabs for a culture. Rhinoscopy may also be done to check the mucous linings of the nose. Disseminated aspergillosis is much more difficult to diagnose, so in this case, you might expect your vet to run a series of labs, including a urinalysis, complete blood panel, and biochemical profile. An X-ray of the spine may also be ordered.
Treating fungal infections in dogs
Treatment for aspergillosis depends on what type of fungal infection your dog has. If she has nasal aspergillosis, an antifungal medication may be prescribed and given directly into the nasal passages while under anesthesia. Because of the complications of disseminated aspergillosis, it is rarely treated. But when diagnosed early, antifungal medications are given to treat the symptoms and, in some cases, even to treat the condition.
Be sure to tell your vet about any medications or supplements your dog is currently taking so your vet can make the best treatment decision for your pet’s unique condition and help reduce the risk of a potential drug interaction.
