Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect dogs of all ages, including puppies and senior dogs. In this article, I’m sharing some pictures of ringworm in dogs and its treatment at home.
Ringworm derives its name from the circular appearance of the lesions on the sufferer’s skin. The most common form of ringworm is caused by a fungus called Microsporum Canis.
In dogs, the areas most commonly affected are the face and nose, the outside of the limbs, and the abdomen. The fungus usually produces a more marked reaction in the dog, and the lesions are more typically circular where the skin is raised and the hair completely missing or broken.
The diagnosis of Microsporum Canis is helped by the characteristic of the spore to fluoresce under ultraviolet light. When suspected dogs are examined in a darkened room, even very small areas of infection can be detected.
In long-haired cats, small infected areas can be surrounded by dense normal fur so that the detection of these areas is impossible without the aid of a lamp.
Other methods of diagnosis involve taking skin scrapings of suspected areas for microscopic examination or the culture fragments of skin or hair in a special medium that changes color in the presence of the colony of a pathogenic fungus.
This last method is useful in the detection of fungi other than Microsporum Canis that do not exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet light.
How can I treat ringworm on my dog at home?
Ringworm can be successfully treated, provided steps are taken to not only eliminate the fungus from the skin of the dog but also to remove it from the environment.
Treatment of the dog must be undertaken over many weeks. Antifungal antibiotics such as Griseofulvin, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, and Terbinafine are active against the fungus in the skin and hair and are given by mouth. It is important to keep the hair in the infected areas as short as possible, as this progressively retains the infected material as it is inactivated by the drug.
Local applications of lotions and ointments can be applied, but are not a successful treatment for ringworm if used without antifungal antibiotics. Cats often become quite sensitive to many of the commonly used ringworm ointments and their continued use can cause severe skin inflammations.
A more-effective topical treatment is to use an antifungal cream on your pet or to bathe the animal in a disinfectant solution. This is completely non-toxic and is also useful to soak bedding and to scrub carpets and chairs that have been in contact with the infected dog.
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic & Antifungal Spray
Ring Out Concentrate
Davis Miconazole Spray
Vetoquinol Ear Dropper for Dogs & Cats
Miconosol Lotion 1% 60ml
Miconazole Spray Rx
Topical Fungicide Spray
Banixx Dog/Cat Ear Infection Hot Spot & Ringworm Treatment
Zymox Topical Cream with Hydrocortisone
Vacuum cleaning frequently and vigorously helps to remove the infective spores. Of course, the patient must be kept isolated so that it is not continually re-infecting the surroundings.
Re-examination of the patient at regular intervals after the treatment with antifungal antibiotics has ceased is essential if the recurrence of the infection and subsequent massive contamination of the environment is to be prevented.
How easily is ringworm transmitted?
Transmission of the ringworm is by spores and fragments of skin that contain spores, and infective strands of the fungus. Direct contact with an infected dog is not necessary. Spore-laden hairs and skin fragments may be transmitted over long distances and remain infective for years in carpets, or upholstery until a suitable host comes in contact with it.
FAQs about ringworm on dogs pictures
Here’s a list of FAQs about ringworm on dogs, along with some helpful answers:
What is ringworm, and how do dogs get it?
Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails of both humans and animals. Dogs can get ringworm from direct contact with an infected animal, soil, or contaminated objects like brushes or bedding.
How can I tell if my dog has ringworm?
The most common symptom of ringworm in dogs is the appearance of circular, red, scaly patches on the skin. These patches may be itchy or inflamed, and they may have hair loss in the center. You may also notice dandruff or crusting around the affected areas.
Can I see pictures of ringworm on dogs?
Yes, there are many pictures of ringworm on dogs available online. These pictures can help you identify the symptoms of ringworm in your own dog, but it’s important to note that not all cases of ringworm look the same.
Is ringworm contagious to humans?
Yes, ringworm can be transmitted from dogs to humans through direct contact or by sharing contaminated objects like clothing or towels. It’s important to practice good hygiene and wash your hands thoroughly after handling an infected animal.
How is ringworm treated in dogs?
Ringworm in dogs is typically treated with antifungal medications like ketoconazole or terbinafine. Your vet may also recommend topical treatments like shampoos or creams. It’s important to follow your vet’s instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment to ensure that the infection is fully cleared up.
While there’s no surefire way to prevent your dog from getting ringworm, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk. Regular grooming and cleaning of bedding and brushes can help, as can keeping your dog away from other animals that may be infected.
Is ringworm a serious condition?
While ringworm is not usually life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable and unpleasant for your dog. If left untreated, it can also spread to other parts of the body or to other animals in your household. If you suspect that your dog has ringworm, it’s important to seek veterinary treatment as soon as possible.
Can I treat my dog’s ringworm at home?
While there are some home remedies that may help alleviate the symptoms of ringworm, it’s important to seek veterinary advice before attempting to treat your dog’s ringworm at home. Your vet can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment options.
How long does it take for ringworm to clear up in dogs?
The length of time it takes for ringworm to clear up in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment used. In some cases, it may take several weeks or even months for the infection to completely resolve. It’s important to follow your vet’s instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment to ensure that the infection is fully cleared up.
Can my other pets get ringworm from an infected dog?
Yes, ringworm can be transmitted between animals in the same household. If you have multiple pets, it’s important to keep them separated if one of them has ringworm to prevent the infection from spreading.
Are there any breeds of dogs that are more susceptible to ringworm?
While any dog can get ringworm, some breeds may be more susceptible than others. Breeds with long hair, like Afghan Hounds and Old English Sheepdogs, may be more prone to developing ringworm due to the increased moisture and warmth in their coats. Dogs with compromised immune systems may also be more at risk.
Can I catch ringworm from my dog?
Yes, ringworm can be transmitted from dogs to humans through direct contact or by sharing contaminated objects. If you suspect that you may have been exposed to ringworm, it’s important to seek medical advice to prevent the infection from spreading.
Can I prevent ringworm from spreading to other areas of my dog’s body?
Yes, you can take steps to prevent ringworm from spreading to other areas of your dog’s body. Keep the affected area clean and dry, and avoid touching or scratching it as much as possible. Use a separate brush or comb for the affected area to prevent the spread of spores to other parts of the coat.
Is it safe to use over-the-counter antifungal creams on my dog’s ringworm?
No, it’s not safe to use over-the-counter antifungal creams or medications intended for humans on your dog’s ringworm. These products may be too harsh or toxic for your pet, and could even make the infection worse. Always seek veterinary advice before using any medications or treatments on your dog.
Can ringworm cause more serious health problems in dogs?
While ringworm is not usually life-threatening, it can cause more serious health problems in dogs with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions. In rare cases, the infection may spread to the lungs or other internal organs, which can be more difficult to treat.
How can I disinfect my home and prevent ringworm from spreading?
To disinfect your home and prevent the spread of ringworm, wash all bedding, brushes, and other items that may have come into contact with your infected pet. Vacuum carpets and upholstery, and disinfect hard surfaces with a solution of bleach and water. Keep infected pets away from other animals and humans until the infection has been fully treated.
Can ringworm be prevented with vaccines or other preventive measures?
No, there is currently no vaccine or other preventive measure for ringworm in dogs. However, you can reduce the risk of infection by practicing good hygiene and keeping your pets clean and healthy. Regular grooming, cleaning of bedding and brushes, and keeping infected pets away from other animals can all help reduce the risk of ringworm transmission.
Can my dog get ringworm from playing outside?
Yes, ringworm can be contracted from the environment. Spores can be found in soil, on surfaces, and even on other animals. It’s important to practice good hygiene and keep your dog clean to reduce the risk of infection.
How can I tell if my dog’s ringworm is getting better?
As your dog’s ringworm begins to heal, you may notice a reduction in symptoms such as itching, redness, and flakiness. The affected area may also begin to shrink and the hair may start to grow back. However, it’s important to continue following your vet’s instructions and complete the full course of treatment to ensure that the infection is fully cleared up.
What should I do if my dog’s ringworm doesn’t improve with treatment?
If your dog’s ringworm doesn’t improve with treatment, it’s important to consult your vet. Your dog may need a different treatment plan or further testing to determine the underlying cause of the infection.
Can I still take my dog to the dog park if they have ringworm?
No, it’s best to keep your dog away from other animals and public areas such as dog parks until their infection has been fully treated and cleared up. This will help prevent the spread of infection to other pets and humans.
How often should I bathe my dog if they have ringworm?
Your vet may recommend bathing your dog with a medicated shampoo as part of their treatment plan. The frequency of baths will depend on the severity of the infection and the type of shampoo used. Follow your vet’s instructions carefully and avoid over-bathing your dog, as this can dry out their skin and exacerbate the symptoms of ringworm.
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Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
