Contrary to its name, ringworm is a fungal infection of the top layers of the skin and hair, not a worm (or even something caused by a worm). Dermatophytes are the types of fungi that cause ringworm, and Microsporum canis is the most prevalent one in animals. Despite usually being non-lethal, ringworm is extremely contagious among people, especially among children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems (such as people undergoing chemotherapy). Therefore, it’s crucial to seek medical or veterinary treatment right away if you believe you or your pet has ringworm.
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Given the variety of parasites that exist, it is tempting to classify ringworm alongside hookworms, whipworms, roundworms, and tapeworms. Ringworm, despite its name, is a fungus rather than a worm. Dog owners should be aware of the signs, causes, and available treatments for ringworm because it affects almost all species of domestic animals, including dogs, and is widespread throughout the world.
The term “ringworm” refers to the fungus and the characteristic round, raised, red ring that characterizes human ringworm infections. A group of pathogenic fungi collectively referred to as dermatophytes are the cause of ringworm. In dogs, the fungus Microsporum canis is responsible for 70% of cases of ringworm, followed by Microsporum gypseum at 20% and Trichophyton mentagrophytes at 10%.
Infected dogs’ outermost layer of skin, hair follicles, and occasionally nails are where the fungus grows and lives. In most cases, the infection is superficial and only affects a few spots on the dog’s body. Ringworm infections can occasionally spread more widely in puppies, senior dogs, and canines with compromised immune systems.
What does ringworm look like in dogs?
While ringworm in dogs may resemble the condition in humans, it doesn’t always take the form of a raised ring. It may have an irregular shape and show up as bald patches that are flaky or scaly and surrounded by brittle, broken hairs. Dr. Wooten adds that it commonly appears on the muzzle. Other common areas include the abdomen, inner thigh, and toenails.
“Claws can also get infected, which can make them rough or break off,” Dr. Evans says. To maintain healthy nails and to look out for ringworm, keep up with routine nail trimming.
How to treat ringworm in dogs
If you suspect your dog has contracted ringworm, it’s best to have it looked at and treated, rather than wait and see. “There is a chance that ringworm can go away by itself, but this will be at the cost of your dog’s well-being,” says Dr. Evans. “They will experience symptoms for a longer amount of time than necessary as opposed to if they received proper medical care.” Untreated ringworm in dogs can take nine to 12 months to go away, but that’s a long time for your dog to be uncomfortable. Since ringworm is contagious to humans and other animals, waiting a year for it to go away on its own is not a good plan.
Do not attempt to identify and treat ringworm without first consulting your veterinarian. In order to rule out other skin conditions that may be similar to ringworm, the doctor will perform a number of tests. Because allergic skin conditions, bacterial skin infections, and mite infections can all appear very similar, it’s crucial to make the right diagnosis before starting treatment. Your veterinarian can recommend the most effective course of treatment after determining that ringworm is the underlying factor.
“Fungal culture, a Wood’s lamp, or a physical examination of the dog’s skin are usually used to diagnose ringworm,” says Dr. Conrad. An ultraviolet light frequency produced by a Wood’s lamp’s black light causes infected hair to glow green. It is not a conclusive diagnosis but may be one of many clinical symptoms.
A fungal culture is the gold standard for ringworm diagnosis, according to Dr Wooten. These can take a few weeks to grow, so a Wood’s lamp can be helpful. “Until the culture results are back, your veterinarian may prescribe medication if the Wood’s lamp shows signs of a fungus.
There are over-the-counter topical treatments for dogs with mild cases of ringworm, similar to human antifungal medications. On the affected area, creams, ointments, and medicated shampoos are used. Your vet may also give you a prescription-strength treatment.
The following medicines are used to treat ringworm in both humans and dogs:
If topical therapy fails, oral medication might be necessary.
The best way to treat your dog’s specific ringworm is to adhere to your veterinarian’s instructions because different presentations and areas of the dog’s body will necessitate a different course of action. “If there is just one lesion, it is advised to clip the dog’s hair widely around the lesion (then clean the clippers because remember—contagious!) and use a topical antifungal cream every 12 hours until the lesion clears up,” advises Dr. Wooten.
However, Dr. Wooten continues, “If the dog has severe ringworm in their nail beds or generalized ringworm, then the situation is different. It is advised to use both an oral and topical antifungal medication, clip the entire haircoat, and rinse with a topical antifungal solution. This always involves the help of a veterinarian. Your veterinarian might employ a medication to eradicate the ringworm fungus. Never attempt to treat nail or generalized ringworm at home. It’s dangerous for your pet!.
FAQ
Do I need to take my dog to the vet for ringworm?
Although the majority of ringworm infections go away on their own, most veterinarians advise treatment to shorten the infection’s duration and lessen the possibility that it will spread to people and other animals. Therapy for pets includes topical therapy and oral medication.
What will the vet do for ringworm?
To help treat and control the infection, your veterinarian will likely suggest a topical therapy like a cream, ointment, and/or medicated shampoo. In order to expedite treatment, your veterinarian may also advise clipping long-haired dogs and shaving the hair from the affected areas.
What do vets prescribe dogs for ringworm?
Dogs with ringworm can benefit from taking pills or tablets of oral antifungal medications, advises Dr Rowan. He suggests topical creams like miconazole and clotrimazole that you apply directly to your dog’s skin in addition to the oral medication terbinafine.
How much does it cost to get a dog treated for ringworm?
Topical creams and ointments could cost anywhere between $20 -$100. If medicated shampoo is also required, the price could increase by $10 to $35. Even though the veterinarian’s medication is more expensive, it works better, and ringworm typically disappears completely within one to three weeks.