Ringworm in dogs is really not caused by a worm at all, but is a well known fungus that can infect dogs, cats and humans. There are several different forms of the fungus which can infect your dog. Every dog owner should be aware of the signs, transmission, and treatment of ringworm.
Where is the ringworm fungus found?
The ringworm fungus is most prevalent in hot, humid climates, but interestingly enough, most cases of ringworm occur in the fall and winter. The fungus is most commonly found either on or in the living quarters of infected animals. Spores from infected animals can be shed into the environment and live for over 18 months.– although most healthy dogs do not carry spores on their skin or hair.
How is ringworm in dogs transmitted?
Ringworm can be transmitted by direct contact with an infected animal, or contact with an item that is contaminated with the spores. The spore can be on infected grooming equipment or brushes, in a contaminated boarding facility or kennel, or in the environment where an infected animal has visited.
What are the signs of ringworm in dogs?
Ringworm in dogs has a very characteristic set of symptoms. The classic symptom is a small round lesion that is devoid of hair that will often have scaly skin in the center. Small pustules are often found in the lesion and the lesion may start as a small spot and continue to grow in size. The lesion may or may not be irritated and itchy. The lesions are most common on the head but can also occur on the legs, feet, or tail. In some infections, the fungus will not be in a circle and can spread across the face or nose.
How is ringworm in dogs diagnosed?
Although there are several methods of diagnosing ringworm in dogs, recognizing the rash is one of the best methods for the pet owner who wants to try and treat it with regular drugstore antifungals. (see below) Pictures of the rash can easily be found in books and on the web.
The best and most accurate way to identify a ringworm infection is by collecting scales and crust from the skin and coat and performing a culture. There are special culture mediums designed specifically for identifying ringworm infections. Your local veterinarian can easily perform this routine culture.
How is ringworm in dogs treated?
Most small, isolated lesions on healthy dogs and puppies will heal on their own within 4 months. In more severe cases, several different treatments are used. For isolated lesions, the area around the lesion should be thoroughly clipped down close to the skin. Care should be taken when clipping not to irritate the skin, as this may promote spreading of the infection. The lesions can then be treated topically twice a day with an antifungal medication. Popular topical treatments include miconazole cream or Lotrimin cream– the same medicine you find in drugstores for Athlete’s Foot. If treatment at home does not show results in a two weeks or if the rash gets worse, take your dog to a veterinarian right away.
How is ringworm in dogs prevented?
There are currently no reliable vaccines for the prevention of ringworm in dogs. Grooming and boarding facilities, as well as dog shows and veterinary clinics can often be a source of infection. Make sure the facilities are clean and that all surfaces and instruments are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between animals. Since ringworm can be transmitted between dogs and people, making sure that that the above measures are strictly adhered to is the best method of prevention. So if you have any doubts– give your dog a thorough bath if you think he might have come into contact with a source of infection.
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