When it comes to our beloved pets, their health is always top of mind. One particular skin condition that is of concern for pet owners is ringworm. Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect both humans and animals. It is important to understand how contagious it is and how it can be transferred from one to the other. In this blog post, we will discuss how contagious ringworm is from dog to human and go over the necessary precautions to take. We will also look at the various treatments available to humans and dogs, as well as the differences between the two. By understanding the risks and treatments, you can help protect both you and your pet from developing this infection.
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It seems that getting a parasite would be much worse than getting a virus or bacteria. There is good news if worms terrify you—ringworm is a fungus, not a worm. The bad news is that ringworm can spread from dogs to people and is highly contagious.
In dogs, ringworm typically appears as a circular patch of hair loss that is either bare, dry-looking skin, or it may be inflamed or scabbed. While ringworm lesions typically do not itch on dogs, this is not the case for humans, as evidenced by the brittle, easily broken hair around the lesions.
Human ringworm typically appears as a red, circular rash on the skin. Even if you’ve never heard of ringworm before, you’ve probably heard of it by its other names, such as athlete’s foot or jock itch. It can be quite itchy. In other words, one of the main causes of shower shoes being worn in public restrooms is ringworm.
Since ringworm is a fungus, spores are how it spreads. Direct contact with an infected animal or person, as well as indirect contact with a spore left in the environment, are the two main ways that people and dogs acquire these spores.
For instance, if a dog with ringworm sleeps on the couch, she will leave behind spores that are clinging to her fragile hair. You unknowingly expose yourself to the infection the next time you sit on the couch. In a home where there is ringworm, bedding, carpets, grooming supplies, food bowls, and clothing can all spread the disease. Even worse, the spores can remain contagious for up to 18 months.
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Whether it appears on you or your dog, ringworm is identifiable by its red, circular skin lesions. However, ringworm in dogs is not always a circular lesion or a worm despite its name; it is a common skin infection that is very contagious.
These lesions commonly show up on the face, ears, tail, or feet in dogs with ringworm. While it’s fairly easy to spot these infected areas, ringworm can also spread to other, more concealed, areas of your pet’s body, making transmission all too simple.
While dog ringworm is annoying, the good news is that it is largely preventable and comparatively simple to treat.
How Is Ringworm in Dogs Spread?
Dogs frequently develop ringworm from digging, or dermatophytosis as your veterinarian may refer to it. Its relatively easy to treat and doesnt cause severe disease. However, because it is extremely contagious and spread by fleas, ringworm in dogs can be challenging to treat.
Any item or substance that can spread an infection is a fomite. In essence, anything your pet touches has the potential to carry and spread ringworm to other cats, dogs, or people. If your dog comes into contact with any brushes, bedding, food, water bowls, toys, or other items, you should clean them if ringworm is present.
Furthermore, any infected dog is thought to be highly contagious to both humans and other animals. After handling your pet, put on gloves or wash your hands and clothes. Keep them in quarantine until your veterinarian deems them infection-free.
FAQ
Can I touch my dog if he has ringworm?
Dogs with ringworm are contagious to humans. Do not handle your dog and then touch your skin if your dog has ringworm or if you have reason to believe they do. Wash your hands after each contact, and contact your doctor if you notice any red, spherical, itchy spots on your own skin.
Can I touch my pet if I have ringworm?
Ringworm is a skin and scalp disease caused by fungi. Its name is derived from the distinctive rash that looks like a ring on the skin. Touching an infected person or animal spreads the disease. Additionally, touching items or surfaces that have come into contact with the infection can spread it.
How long is my dog contagious with ringworm?
The fungus can thrive on surfaces, clothing, bedding, brushes, soil, and other objects. Pets with ringworm infection are contagious until they receive treatment or the infection is cleared up by their immune system.
How long do you quarantine a dog with ringworm?
As you fight ringworm, you should try to quarantine your dog for about six weeks.