How do dogs get Aspergillosis?
Aspergillus is a very common fungus that is found throughout the environment. Most animals and people will come into contact with this fungus at some point in their lives, however, most animals do not develop infections. Most infections occur in animals that have a poor or deficient immune system, a prior sinus infection, or in animals that have been on prolonged antibiotic therapy. In addition, animals that are undergoing chemotherapy or have a pre-existing disease such as diabetes mellitus are more prone to developing aspergillosis. However, Aspergillus can infect healthy animals with a normal immune system as well. The animal inhales the Aspergillus spores and the fungus takes up residence in the nasal passages. There are several forms of the disease that range from a minor infection on the surface of the mucous membrane to a fulminating form where the bony passages in the sinuses are rapidly destroyed. In dogs, the disease rarely travels out of the sinus or nasal area. Which dogs a
