UC Davis researchers warn that dogs are also susceptible to valley fever

A recent rise in valley fever cases among people has researchers concerned that our four-legged companions may also be at risk.

Each year, about 1,000 cases of valley fever are reported in dogs across California. If your dog or other pet is diagnosed with valley fever, researchers say it may be a signal that you should get checked.

At a dog park in Tracy, dozens of dogs run and play daily in an area considered a hotspot for valley fever.

Valley fever is caused by a fungus that lives beneath the soil. When construction or farming disturbs the ground, the fungal spores can become airborne, where both humans and pets can breathe them in.

Dogs that like to dig may be at even greater risk due to more direct contact with the soil.

"That puts them in close contact with the fungus that's in t