“Blastomycosis is a fungal organism that animals can pick up from humus-type soil. So, riverbeds, lakes, streams, and swamp areas are very common areas that they can get exposed to it,” shared Edward Brauer II, DVM. He advises pet owners to avoid wet, swampy areas when walking their pets as the weather gets warmer.
Source: WMTV Madison, May 6, 2023. Link. The organism is usually inhaled, and it can cause respiratory issues. Blastomycosis is treated using anti-fungal therapy which can require oral medication for four months minimum to get rid of it shared Brauer.