Ask The Vet: How to deal with Valley Fever in your pets

Q: My friend’s dog was diagnosed with Valley Fever. Can my dog catch it from them?

A: Warmer weather in northern Arizona brings folks from the Valley trying to escape the even hotter weather down south. As Phoenicians and their pets ascend the hill, veterinarians see an influx of diseases that they may not see as frequently during our cooler months. One of these diseases that is more common in the desert is Valley Fever. Luckily, this is not a contagious disease, but it is frequently diagnosed in Arizona, so let’s talk about what it is, what to look for in your pet and how it is treated.