You want the best care possible for your dog or cat. That is why the choice of a veterinarian is important. When making a selection for an animal hospital, you have to consider the featured services.
That is why pet care services in Scottsdale, AZ place an emphasis on preventative, diagnostic, and emergency care. By taking this approach, pets receive therapies and treatment that ensure their continual health and longevity.
For example, treatment covers Valley Fever, well known in the Sonoran Desert. It the condition is caught in its early stages, it can be treated with success. To make sure that your pet is healthy, you should schedule a Valley Fever screening if you have not done so already.
What Is Valley Fever?
Valley fever is caused by a fungus called Coccidiodes immitis. Dogs seem to be especially particularly vulnerable to valley fever as they dig and sniff the ground. As a result, they can inhale a large number of spores at one time.
According to specialists in pet care services, valley fever can take one of two forms. The primary disease is restricted to the lungs while the disseminated disease has spread to other areas of the body. Normally, the bones or joints are affected when the disease progresses this far.
Valley Fever Symptoms
Health care providers in pet care services add that dogs will exhibit the following symptoms if the disease has affected the lungs:
- A harsh, dry cough
- A poor appetite
- Depression
- Lethargy
- A fever
If the disease has progressed to another part of the body, lameness is often the result. In some rare cases, the fungus spreads to the brain, which leads to seizures.
Treating the Infection
If your dog is diagnosed with valley fever, he or she will usually need to take antifungal medicines. The duration for the treatment will depend on the extent of the infection. Many times, therapy takes as long as six to 12 months.
Who to Call
Make sure that your dog or cat is given regular health checks. Contact Aztec Animal Hospital to ensure the very best care for your pet. Call the office at 480-945-6800 in Scottsdale, AZ today. You can connect with them on Facebook for more updates!
