
14/02/2025
🚨 WARNING FOR PET PARENTS! 🚨
‼️ Deadly Pythiosis Infection Reported in Sarasota & Manatee Counties ‼️
A rare and often fatal infection called Pythiosis has been detected in at least five dogs in our area within the last month—four of those cases were fatal. 💔
🐶 What is Pythiosis?
Pythiosis is caused by the aquatic mold Pythium Insidiosum and can severely affect a dog's skin or gastrointestinal tract; frequently misdiagnosed as a fungal infection. It thrives in contaminated or stagnant water, including floodwaters, swamps, puddles, and retention ponds.
⚠️ Symptoms to Watch For:
🔹 Sores on the skin
🔹 Weight loss
🔹 Vomiting
🔹 Diarrhea
🔹 Loss of appetite
💡 How to Protect Your Pet:
🚫 Avoid letting dogs wade, swim, or drink from stagnant or contaminated water. Can affect horses and humans, too.
🛑 Be extra cautious after storms or floods
⏳ Seek immediate veterinary care if symptoms appear—early detection is critical
A local veterinarian warns that Pythiosis is incredibly difficult to treat and often fatal if not caught early.
📢 Please share to help spread awareness! Keeping our furry friends safe starts with education. Stay vigilant, Sarasota & Manatee pet families! ❤️🐾