How to Treat Skin Fungus on a Dog

A fungal infection is never any fun, and when it's your four-legged friend that has one, it can be even less fun, because you are the one who has to treat it. Most fungal infections eventually require vet intervention, you can do some things on your own to treat the infection along with your vet's medication. Part of treating the infection is also making sure that it does not reoccur.

Instructions

    • 1

      Clean your dog thoroughly, to determine the extent of the fungal infection. If the infection is on the skin, clean the area of the infection with water while you clean the dog. Try to determine how big the area of the infection is so that you can tell the vet when you visit. If the fungal infection is in the dog's nose or throat, give the dog a regular bath and take note of any other discharge or infected areas.

    • 2

      Take the dog to a vet as soon as you know there is a fungal infection, or as soon as you suspect one. Even if you feel you cannot afford it, it is important to figure out a way to take your dog in. Check the local human societies or shelters for suggestions of cheaper vets, or ones that will allow you to have a payment plan. Your dog needs to be seen by a vet, because if you don't have antifungal medication, you cannot get rid of the infection.

    • 3

      Give the dog a dose of the antifungal medication each time you are supposed to, until the treatment has run its course. Generally, most fungal infections will require two courses of treatment, as they can be difficult to resolve the first time around. Don't skip any doses of medication, and do not stop the treatment before the vet says you should.

    • 4

      Keep the dog clean and dry during treatments. Fungal infections will spread or get worse if the dog is damp or kept in a damp location. Also keep the bedding dry and clean, and make sure your dog has a good diet so the infection does not come back.