The Silent Threat: Valley Fever in Dogs and the Heartbreaking Loss of Wade
Wade’s Story: A Frenchie’s Fight Against Valley Fever
Wade was a vibrant and spunky French Bulldog who, like so many pets, only wanted love, safety, and a forever home. But fate had other plans. His early life started out normally, but soon took a heartbreaking turn. Wade became ill with a rare disease called Valley Fever. Instead of receiving care and comfort from his family, he was abandoned at a shelter, left to face his condition alone—until a kind-hearted volunteer from Marley’s Mutts stepped in to give him a chance. (Watch Video Above)
Though Wade received life-saving treatment and experienced love from volunteers, his battle with Valley Fever left him with permanent challenges, including the loss of use of one leg and chronic eye irritation. Despite the odds, Wade’s spirit shone bright. While he never found an adoptive home before his passing, he knew kindness and care thanks to those who refused to give up on him. Wade’s legacy lives on in the lesson he leaves for us all: awareness of Valley Fever could save another dog’s life.
What Is Valley Fever in Dogs?
Valley Fever, medically known as coccidioidomycosis, is caused by inhaling spores of the fungus Coccidioides immitis. This microscopic fungus lives in dry, dusty environments, particularly in regions like Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas, and parts of Utah. The spores lie dormant in the soil and become airborne when the ground is disturbed by wind, digging, or construction.
Dogs contract Valley Fever by inhaling these spores. The disease primarily starts in the lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing, fatigue, and decreased appetite. In most cases, healthy dogs can fight off the infection with minimal intervention. But for others—especially those with weakened immune systems—Valley Fever can spread beyond the lungs to joints, eyes, bones, and other organs, causing severe illness, chronic pain, and, in tragic cases like Wade’s, death.
How Is Valley Fever Treated?
If caught early, Valley Fever is treatable. Veterinarians typically prescribe antifungal medications for six to twelve months. In mild cases, dogs often bounce back after just a few weeks of treatment. However, disseminated Valley Fever—where the infection spreads beyond the lungs—requires longer-term or even lifelong medication.
In Wade’s case, the disease had advanced before he was given a fighting chance. His care involved extensive treatments, but the damage was done. His journey reminds us of the importance of early veterinary intervention.
Preventing Valley Fever in Dogs
While there’s no way to guarantee that your pup will not get valley fever, there are many ways to reduce the likelihood of the disease. Because the responsible fungus is a natural part of local soils, there is no way to reliably get rid of it. You can, however, reduce your pup’s exposure to the affected dirt.
Keep Pups Clean
One of the first lines of defense against valley fever is a good bath! Our canine companions may not always enjoy their bathtime, but these pampering sessions do far more than soften their coat and brighten their colors. For dogs in valley-fever-prone areas, keeping their fur and paws free of excessive dust and dirt reduces their exposure to the fungus.
Discourage Digging
As much as dogs love to dig, it’s not very healthy for them to do so in areas that contain the valley fever fungus. Try to keep their outdoor play space free of large, dusty patches and discourage your dogs from digging into the ground. This may be done by rerouting their behavior to a more desirable activity, or you can train them to follow commands such as “leave it”.
Think Green
The Tucson College of Medicine notes that one of the best ways to reduce your dog’s exposure to the fungus is to reduce the amount of dusty dirt in your yard. Planting grass and native plants helps the environment and prevents your pup from coming into contact with the fungus. If this isn’t possible, creating a deep layer of gravel or mulch works just as well!
Avoid High-Risk Areas
Your yard isn’t the only place where your pup comes into contact with desert dust. Along the western coast of the United States, pups are exposed to the valley fever fungus in many other places. On daily walks, be mindful of spots where there is an abundance of natural dust. According to Vanessa Farner, DVM, construction sites are an often forgotten source of atmospheric dust. If one of these happens to be on your usual walking route, consider taking a different path with your pooch.
Keep an Eye on Research
Fortunately for pet owners everywhere, scientists are working on a vaccine for valley fever. As of 2022, it is not currently available to the public. However, many vets are hopeful that a publicly available valley fever vaccine will soon be available!
Wade’s Legacy: Raising Awareness
Wade’s passing was a heartbreaking loss, but his story carries a message that could save other dogs. Valley Fever often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. By spreading awareness, pet owners can act early and give their dogs the best chance at recovery.
If you live in or visit a Valley Fever-prone area, stay informed and proactive. Wade didn’t get the forever home he deserved, but his journey has the power to protect countless other pets. Let’s honor his memory by ensuring no other dog suffers needlessly from this preventable tragedy.
Final Thoughts
Wade’s story is a somber reminder of the hidden dangers our pets may face and the responsibility we have to protect them. By learning about Valley Fever, staying vigilant, and seeking prompt care, we can help ensure that our dogs enjoy long, happy, and healthy lives—something Wade deserved, and every pet does too.
FAQ: Valley Fever in Dogs
Where is Valley Fever most common?
Hot desert regions: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas, and parts of Utah.
What are the early signs?
Coughing, wheezing, decreased appetite, and fatigue.
Is Valley Fever contagious?
No. It’s not spread from dog to dog or to humans through contact.
How is it treated?
Antifungal medication for 6–12 months, or longer for disseminated cases.
Can dogs recover?
Yes! Most dogs treated early make a full recovery.
How can I prevent it?
Limit exposure to dust, discourage digging, and keep your dog clean.
