Remedies for Dog Ringworm

Ringworm, contrary to popular belief, is not a worm at all. Instead, it’s a fungal infection that results in scaly bald areas that grow in rings. When it develops in humans, the infection is surrounded by a ring of elevated, irritated tissue, which is how ringworm earned its name. If it’s on the feet, it’s called athlete’s foot, and if it’s on the groin, it’s called jock itch.

While ringworm isn’t dangerous, it is an itchy infection that can cause your dog’s fur to fall out and infect you. The age groups of puppies and older dogs are the most severely affected. If they are not treated, they may acquire body-wide ringworm infections.

Ringworm is caused by a variety of fungus, but they can all be treated in the same way. Because ringworm is a fungus, it needs specialized treatment in order to eradicate the illness. If you aren’t careful, ringworm might reappear, so be meticulous when treating the problem and caring for your dog afterwards.

Ringworm Remedies and Treatments

There are two forms of ringworm treatments: topical and oral. Topical treatments are usually used first since ringworm resides on the surface of the skin and is easily accessed with ointments or lotions. Oral treatment is occasionally used for more serious instances or for dogs who have ringworm on a regular basis.

Here are some options for treating ringworm in your dog:

Wash Your Dog With Antifungal Shampoo

The affected area’s fur becomes more fragile and prone to breaking as a result of ringworm. Ringworm spores thrive in these damaged hairs, making them extremely infectious.

If your dog has been exposed to ringworm, antifungal shampoos or dips are available over-the-counter to help stop the condition in its tracks. Each antifungal shampoo comes with its unique set of directions, but it’s best to use it at least twice a week. If your dog’s veterinarian has provided you with additional instructions, make sure you follow them.

Here are some options for treating ringworm in your dog:

These topical remedies are more effective than shampoos at targeting a specific area. They can also assist to lessen the ringworm patch’s contagiousness.

You can ask your pet’s veterinarian for over-the-counter antifungal cream suggestions, or they may prescribe a prescription ointment. In any case, the topical treatment will most likely need to be applied for at least six weeks, if not longer.

Shave the Area Around the Infection

Because ringworm spores grow on and in damaged hairs, cutting the fur around your dog’s ringworm infection may help to minimize the spread of the condition.

Hair shedding and breakage are reduced when the fur is trimmed close to the skin. As a result, there’s less chance of infectious materials moving throughout the house and producing another ringworm outbreak later. Some dermatologists may advise this procedure, while others may not. Consult your dog’s veterinarian to see if this is a worthwhile treatment.

Vacuum and Wash Bedding Frequently

Because ringworm is so infectious, it’s critical to keep your home as bacteria as possible. Ringworm spores can experience daily for months after being shed.

Vacuum frequently to eliminate shed fur and skin cells from your home when treating your pet or yourself for ringworm. It’s also a great idea to wash their bedding and toys on a regular basis.

Keep Affected Pets Quarantined

Ringworm spores can be shed by your dog anyplace they are allowed to go. Keep any animals with ringworm in easy-to-clean settings to offer yourself a greater chance of keeping the infection contained. To limit the possibility of the fungus spreading, keep other pets as far away from the affected animal as possible.

You should also be cautious because ringworm can be transmitted to humans. As long as your dog has ringworm, keep older individuals, young children, and anyone with skin problems or a compromised immune system away from it. While keeping your pet quarantined for the six weeks or more it takes to cure ringworm may be tough, it will be easier than fighting ringworm on a regular basis.

When to See a Veterinarian

Always consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has ringworm. Other skin problems, such as irritated tick bites or Lyme disease, can be mistaken for ringworm. Your veterinarian will assist you in determining the source of the problem and provide guidance on how to effectively treat your pet.

If you decide to treat your dog’s ringworm on your own, contact a veterinarian if the illness appears to be spreading or worsening so that an oral antifungal treatment can be prescribed. The sooner you begin ringworm treatment under the supervision of a veterinarian, the less likely you are to contract ringworm, and the sooner your pet will be cured.

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