Valley Fever
Valley Fever
The medical name for Valley Fever is coccidioidomycosis – often called “cocci” (pronounced KOK-SEE) for short. The name of the fungus, which causes Valley Fever or “cocci”, is Coccidioides immitis, which grows in soils around areas of low rainfall, high summer temperatures, and moderate winter temperatures. Valley Fever is prevalent in portions of Sacramento Valley, San Joaquin Valley, desert regions, southern portions of California, and much of the southwestern United States.
Coccidioides immitis (fungal spores) become airborne when the soil is disturbed by winds, construction, farming, and other activities. The infection occurs when a spore is inhaled. The infecting spores grow in the lung tissue and become microscopic cysts called “spherules” (little spheres). Each spherule is filled with even smaller endospores. As the infection in the lung increases, the spherules burst, allowing the endospores to be discharged into the lung tissue. Each of the numerous endospores may itself grow into a spherule causing the disease to progress.
Both people and pets are susceptible to this disease, but it is not a “contagious” disease, meaning it is not passed from person-to-person, or pet-to-pet, you must breathe in the spore to get it. In some cases, it can become very serious and even life-threatening. Fortunately, in most cases, the body will build an immunity to it.
Symptoms of Valley Fever in dogs may include:
- Fever
- Aching joints or lameness
- Chills
- Sweats
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Flu-like symptoms
- Loss of appetite
- Slight cold
- Skin rashes
Below is a video of a dog with the “Valley Fever cough.”
If you feel your pet may be suffering from this disease, Purely Pets recommends seeking veterinarian advice and a blood test or culture to determine if it is Valley Fever. If after the blood test is positive you decide to treat naturally, Purely Pets recommends the following products:
This product contains Fresh Spilanthes Leaf & Root, Grape Root, Juniper Berry, Usnea Lichen, and Myrrh Gum tincture. It is supportive in the reduction of Valley Fever.
This replication of Renee Caisse’s formula (ESSIAC Tea) has been widely used for over 50 years, successfully addressing cancers, cysts, tumors, degenerative diseases, viral and bacterial infections. It stimulates the immune system and is effective in fighting stubborn infections. Contains fresh organic, wildcrafted Sheep Sorrel, Burdock Root, Slippery Elm and Turkey Rhubarb Root.
Purely Pets recommends Mega Pet for pets 20 lbs. and over. It is in capsule form and may be difficult for smaller pets to swallow. Nupro is suggested for pets 20 lbs. and under. Both supplements are high potency, nutritional supplements containing vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Valley fever is on the rise because of the growing number of pet owners moving to areas where the disease is common. Recent natural disasters have also triggered a rise in Valley Fever cases. To date, there is no vaccine against this disease. Persons or animals should avoid exposure to dust and dry soil in areas where this disease is common.
If you have further questions or are interested in more in-depth information regarding Valley Fever in dogs, we urge you to contact Purely Pets today!
IMPORTANT! The recommendations in this article are general suggestions for treating your pet naturally. It is important to look at each pet individually and determine what works best for YOUR pet.
I would highly consider a consultation. A consultation will include a personalized diet and holistic program suggestions, all custom-tailored to your pet’s personal needs. This is particularly imperative in pets with complicated health issues, or if you’ve done outside reading and have conflicting information.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Purely Pets today!
