How to Kill Ringworm on a Dog

Ringworm is actually not caused by a worm; it's caused by a fungus that results in a small, round lesion on the skin. The skin in the center of the lesion will be scaly, and the lesion will be devoid of hair. Ringworm affects not only dogs, but cats and humans as well, and can be transferred between species. Ringworm is easy to treat.

Instructions

    • 1

      Clip your dog's coat down to the skin, making sure you don't nick his skin or irritate the lesion. This will make it easier to treat the ringworm and also allow the lesion to dry out, which will help prevent the ringworm from spreading. Your veterinarian or veterinary technician will probably be happy to help clip your dog's coat if you're nervous doing so or lack the proper tools.

    • 2

      Treat the lesions twice a day with a topical anti-fungal medicine specifically for ringworm. This can be obtained from your veterinarian or pet medication provider. Make sure you treat the lesions for at least a week after the lesions appear to be gone. This will ensure the ringworm doesn't return.

    • 3

      Wash your dog with an anti-fungal shampoo. This can be in addition to, but not instead of, using a topical anti-fungal medicine.

    • 4

      Treating your dog with an oral anti-fungal medicine can be done instead of treating him with a topical anti-fungal medicine. These drugs are only to be used under close veterinarian supervision, because of the potential toxicity and need to be given over the course of several months. Topical treatments are safer and usually kill ringworm quicker than oral medicine.

    • 5

      Wash your dog's bedding and any other blankets he comes in contact with to prevent the ringworm from reoccurring. Spot clean any furniture your dog uses.