Frequently called the “Chicago Disease,” blastomycosis is a potentially fatal fungal infection that has shown an increasing number of cases in the Chicago area in recent years. There is about a fifty percent survival rate for dogs diagnosed with this infection, making this recent increase in reports a cause for local concern and increased awareness.
Blastomycosis disease is caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis, which is primarily local to the Midwest and most prominent around areas close to bodies of water. The fungus grows in moist soil heavy with decomposing organic materials such as leaves, wood, or other decaying plant matter. The disease typically occurs when spores from the fungus are inhaled, but they may also enter the body through open sores or wounds.
The disease can affect humans, dogs, cats, horses (several other species have also been reported,) if they come into contact with the fungus. Early detection and diagnosis are key in increasing chances of survival.
Symptoms:
Treatment:
According to the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois, “Illinois is located in the “Blasto Belt” for humans and animals alike. Retrievers, beagles, and other hunting dogs are particularly susceptible to getting blastomycosis because of their outdoor activities.” Blastomycosis in humans is not transmitted through the air from an affected pet, but could be contracted from changing an infected animal’s bandage through skin contact of open wounds.
If you or your pet are experiencing any of the symptoms don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.
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]]>The Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society helps over 20,000 animals in need each year, and they couldn’t do it all without community support, awareness, and life-saving donations. In addition to standard donations, there are several upcoming opportunities to help Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society that are just around the corner, so why not chip in and help out an organization that does so much for so many and has been doing it since 1899?
Especially with this week’s sudden dog flu outbreak which has shut down all dog adoptions at both adoption locations, any extra donations will certainly go to getting (and keeping) the dogs healthy. Read more about this dog flu outbreak at Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society here.
Upcoming Events:
Tuesday February 23rd, 2017– “Pour Your Heart Out” Fundraiser. Join The Anti-Cruelty Society Thursday, Feb. 23 from 6–8:00 p.m. at Union League Club (65 W. Jackson Blvd) for a wine and spirits tasting to help support the cats and dogs at the Society. The event includes hors-d’oeuvres, wine pull, and even a raffle and photo booth. Tickets are $65 in advance (until Feb 22nd) or $70 at the door.
October 8th, 2017– Run the Chicago Marathon with Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society’s “Team Anti-Cruelty.” It’s only 26.2 miles and you will be helping to make a difference in the lives of thousands of dogs and cats. Tip: Refer a friend and your entry fee will be waived.
Donations of any kind are always appreciated and accepted, but why not have a little fun and hang out with some like minded animal lovers while you’re helping out the Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society to make a difference?
]]>Hit with a case of the dog flu (canine influenza virus), the Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society has put all dog adoptions on hold as of Monday February 6, 2017. The outbreak and hold has affected adoptions at 510 N. LaSalle St. and the Everyday Adoption Center in the South Loop PetSmart (1101 S. Canal St.)
This is not the first time that Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society has been forced to close for dog adoptions, but the closure this time is estimated at 3-4 weeks. During this time, all dogs in their care will be quarantined and medicated for the canine influenza virus, and the organization is requesting donations to aide in the additional care & treatments.
Canine Influenza Virus (CIV) hit Chicago and the Midwest hard in 2015, and has since stuck around to infect more dogs in 2016, and now it seems it did not waste any time now surfacing in the early days of 2017.
A plea on the Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society facebook page urges donations and not just the monetary kind, “Since all the dogs at The Anti-Cruelty Society are now on medical treatment for canine influenza virus (dog flu), we are in need of tasty food to help get the dogs to take their medications!” And what tasty foods do they find most helpful?
“We’re specifically looking for hot dogs and liverwurst. If you are able to donate to help us purchase these items, please visit anticruelty.org“
Of course financial assistance can also be made by sending a check to the Anti-Cruelty Society office at 157 W. Grand Ave. Chicago, IL 60654. The Society helps more than 20,000 animals each year, and although they are eager to resume dog adoptions, cat and kitten adoptions are unaffected by the dog flu outbreak and adopters are welcome to come visit the many adoptable felines.
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