Differences Between a Dog's Staph Infection and Ringworm

Early recognition of a Staphylococcus infection and ringworm is essential to your dog's well-being. Because the conditions may look similar and are common in dogs with a compromised immune system, it can be challenging to distinguish the two. Regardless of which skin condition you are dealing with, early treatment is important. Some skin conditions in dogs are highly contagious, and treating them early can help prevent additional problems.

  1. Causes

    • Ringworm is a condition that's caused by fungal microorganisms that can infect your dog's hair, skin or nails. Physical contact with an infected animal or contact with the hair of an infected animal transmits the condition to your dog. Staphylococcus is a type of bacteria that naturally lives on the skin of humans and animals. If your dog's immune system is impaired, due to allergies, parasites or cuts, the bacteria may overgrow and trigger a Staphylococcus infection.

    Symptoms

    • Ringworm is characterized by an oval or circular bald, scaly spot on your dog's skin. The spot may get larger over time, and itching, even though not common, may occur. The condition commonly affects the dog's head but can also affect his legs, feet or tail. A staph infection may resemble a ringworm lesion, or it can also look like a puss-filled pimple or bump. The lesion may appear anywhere on your dog's body, but is commonly found on the stomach. This condition may trigger pain and itchiness.

    Treatment of Ringworm

    • Because ringworm is contagious between animals and humans, early treatment is essential. Your veterinarian may use special lighting, microscopic examination or culture identification to diagnose your pet companion. If your dog is healthy and only has a small lesion, he may heal without treatment within four months. Other treatment options for ringworm may include clipping the hair around the lesion, administering topical or oral antifungal medication and regular use of disinfecting shampoo. Dog owners must also refrain from using the same grooming tools on multiple animals.

    Treatment of a Staph Infection in Dogs

    • Whether your dog can transmit his infection to humans depends on the bacteria strain that's causing the condition. Staphylococcus intermedius can't trigger an infection in humans, while Staphylococcus aureus can. Your veterinarian can diagnose the infection by performing a skin biopsy or culture analysis. He may prescribe oral antibiotics, which must be completed to successfully eradicate the infection. In addition, he may prescribe a topical treatment to relieve discomfort.