Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that can affect humans and animals, including dogs. While it is not a serious health hazard to humans, it can cause serious skin issues in dogs, such as itching, hair loss and sores. In some cases, it can even affect their nails, eyes, and other areas. As such, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of ringworm in dogs and know when to seek medical attention for your canine friend. In this blog post, we will discuss how serious ringworm can be for dogs, the signs and symptoms of the infection, and what you should do if you suspect your dog has ringworm.
Causes: Why Do Dogs Get Ringworm?
Contact with an infected surface can result in the fungal infection known as ringworm. Dogs contract ringworm in the same way humans do: by coming into contact with an infected animal, person, or object. The infection can be spread by merely touching an area of the body on a person or an animal that has ringworm.
Because dogs like to explore, touch, and learn about their surroundings, it can be challenging to prevent ringworm in them. Make sure you’re using sterile grooming tools, and cover up any areas of your body or the bodies of other animals where ringworm might be present.
Beginning with a physical examination of the ringworm-affected areas, ringworm in dogs can be identified. If your dog has itchy skin, your veterinarian can determine whether it’s ringworm or another skin condition. It’s crucial to determine whether your dog is allergic to their food or suffers from a different type of skin infection.
In order to determine whether your dog has ringworm, your veterinarian will also perform a direct microscopic examination of the hair and skin. In fact, microscopic examination of the skin and hair may enable your veterinarian to identify ringworm earlier on, making it simpler to treat. Anyhow, it’s critical to get your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
Fortunately, there are options available for treating canine ringworm. In order to treat the fungal infection and the affected skin, ringworm in dogs is typically treated with oral medication as well as topical medication.
Ringworm in dogs, which affects young dogs and Yorkshire Terriers more frequently than other dog breeds, is typically only treated with oral medications in long-term or severe cases.
A medicated shampoo or dip is the main course of treatment for canine ringworm. A medicated shampoo can help your dog’s skin become free of the fungus that has infected it and lessen some of the signs of ringworm. Additionally, your veterinarian might advise cleaning the areas of your house where your dog spends a lot of time with bleach.
Getting a dog’s ringworm diagnosed and treated as soon as possible is crucial. If untreated, ringworm can spread and result in skin issues in various places, making treatment more difficult. It’s crucial to discuss your dog’s age and medical history with your veterinarian in order to decide whether or not oral medication is required.
How long will my dog be contagious?
If prompt treatment is given, infected animals continue to be contagious for approximately three weeks. If only minimal steps are taken or if you don’t follow the recommended approach, the ringworm infection will last longer and remain contagious for a longer period of time. It is advised to limit exposure to your family members and other dogs or cats during this time. A successful treatment for your dog will be indicated by two consecutive negative fungal cultures.
Ringworm In Dogs: Frequently Asked Questions
Among the signs of canine ringworm are bald, scaly patches of skin and hair loss. In the impacted areas, you might also detect irritation and inflammation. Typically, the face, the tips of the ears, the tail, and the feet exhibit these symptoms. While you may be able to recognize some ringworm in dogs symptoms at home, it’s crucial to take your dog to the vet for a diagnosis and to learn how to treat ringworm in dogs.
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.
How long does ringworm last in a dog?
Ringworm can last anywhere from six weeks to eighteen months, but it is less fatal than other ailments or diseases. Your dog won’t perish and there won’t be lasting damage.
Is ringworm in dogs curable?
Combining topical therapy (the application of creams, ointments, or shampoos) and systemic therapy (the ingestion of anti-fungal medications) is the most typical method of treating ringworm in dogs. Elimination of all environmental contamination is necessary for treatment to be effective.
How quickly does ringworm progress in dogs?
Lesions on the dog’s body may spread and take on an irregular shape as the fungus grows. The incubation period is 10 to 12 days. This indicates that infection and fungus exposure take place 10–12 days before lesions appear.