Dog owners and veterinarians are raising alarms after several dogs died from a rare and deadly fungal infection known as pythiosis.
The disease, caused by a water mold-like organism, is often fatal once contracted. Concerned pet owners and veterinarians are speaking out to raise awareness.
Dr. Aline Rodrigues Hoffmann, a professor at the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, has been studying pythiosis for years. She warned that the disease, which can also affect cats and horses, is a slow killer, especially when it occurs in the gastrointestinal chambers of an animal. She said the disease is only detectable through a blood test or biopsy.