As the old saying goes, dogs are man’s best friend. But, it turns out that a whopping 84% of pet owners say that they consider themselves a “parent” to their furry companion. It makes sense, given how much responsibility it requires to own a dog, cat, or other domestic animal.
One of the main responsibilities that comes with caring for a dog is making certain that he or she is healthy. Ringworm in dogs is relatively common, but the good news is that ringworm is also easily treated. Read on to learn the symptoms and the solutions.
What Is Ringworm?
“Ringworm” is a bit of a misnomer. Unlike tapeworms, hookworms and roundworms, ringworm is not a parasite at all, but a fungal infection. It grows on the outermost layer of an animal’s skin, in its hair follicles, and sometimes in its nails.
Ringworm is spread through direct contact with another infected dog. Or, through contact with combs, collars, carpet, bedding, or furniture where the fungus lives. This is because the fungal spores responsible for ringworm can stay viable for up to a year and a half. This makes pinpointing the sources of the infection difficult. Especially, if your dog goes to daycare or spends time with other animals.
It should be noted that ringworm is contagious for both people and animals.
What Are the Symptoms of Ringworm In Dogs?
The classic indication of ringworm — and the symptom responsible for its name — is a round, scabby, inflamed lesion that has a red center. Ringworm causes hair loss, so it can appear as a bald spot. Most often, ringworm lesions appear on the dog’s head, ears, paws, and forelimbs.
However, it’s important to note that ringworm can affect any part of the animal’s body. It can also be asymptomatic.
Puppies, senior dogs, and any animal with compromised immune systems are most at risk for ringworm. The infection can also affect cats and humans, so if one family member is diagnosed, be on the lookout for symptoms in everyone else.
If You Suspect Your Dog Has Ringworm
Think your dog might have ringworm? Call your veterinarian’s office to make an appointment. There are several diagnostic tests that the vet can use to determine if your dog is infected.
It is likely that the vet will take a sample of skin cells or hair to be cultured. Another method of diagnosing ringworm is to use a special ultraviolet light, called a Wood’s lamp, to examine the dog’s hair.
Treatment of Ringworm
The most effective course of treatment for ringworm in dogs is a three-pronged approach. Topical treatment, oral medication, and environmental cleaning, when used together, are effective at eliminating the infection.
In order to apply a topical ointment or cream, it may be necessary to clip the dog’s coat, and/or shave around the infected area. Topical treatments can be slow-acting, which is why most vets recommend additional approaches.
Oral anti-fungal medications work to heal the ringworm infection from the inside out. Just as when you take antibiotics for an infection, it’s important to complete the entire course of medication. Continue dosing the dog, even if the visible symptoms of ringworm disappear.
Lastly, a thorough cleaning of any area where the dog spends time will help prevent reinfection. Vacuum all carpets, mop any non-carpeted floors, and wash bedding and dog clothing in hot water. Wash or otherwise clean any combs or brushes you use on the dog.
Until the ringworm is completely eradicated, and your vet has retested for ringworm and given you the “all clear,” vacuum or mop on a daily basis.
Final Thoughts
If you have questions about treating ringworm in dogs, how to keep your pooch happy and healthy, or any other animal-related issue, give us a call! The compassionate, experienced staff at Sykesville Veterinary Clinic will be happy to help.