Ringworm is a skin infection caused by one of several types of fungus. Though the fungus is found most often in hot, humid climates, the infection most often occurs in fall and winter. Most healthy dogs don̵7;t carry the spores, but in infected dogs they may be present in the fur or bedding and can live up to 18 months. The infection is most commonly caused by three types of fungus, all of which may be transferred to other dogs, cats and people.
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Microsporum Canis
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Microsporum canis is a dermatophyte-type fungus that causes ringworm in dogs and cats. Normally found in warm climates with high humidity, the infection is transferable to humans. Symptoms of such an infection include patches of hair loss that look circular and scaly. Ringworm does not generally present with itching, but will most commonly appear as spots around the head, ears and tail of the dog. Symptoms may vary, but in most healthy animals, the illness will run its course in six to eight weeks without treatment. Diagnosis and treatment of micosporum canis can be performed by a veterinarian. This particular fungus will glow a yellow-green under an ultraviolet lamp. You can use non-prescription cream for treatment, if desired.
Microsporum Gypseum
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Microsporum gypseum most commonly infects cats and dogs, but can be transmitted to humans. A dog infected with the fungus will first present with patchy hair loss, which can be found in several places, but most commonly around the head, ears and tail. Found frequently in warm, humid areas, spores can be found on the animal̵7;s fur and bedding. A veterinarian can confirm the presence of microsporum gypseum using a comb test. This particular fungus does not fluoresce under an ultraviolet lamp. As long as the animal has a healthy immune system, the infection usually resolves itself without treatment in six to eight weeks.
Trichophyton Mentagrophytes
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The fungus that causes athlete̵7;s foot in humans, trichophyton mentagrophytes is found in soil. Able to infect humans, cats and dogs, transfers through soil onto wet or broken skin. The infection causes irritation, red spots and a rash and is also associated with patchy hair loss in animals. Treatment usually involves an antifungal cream, and symptoms should subside within a few days. All bedding should be washed in warm water to avoid a recurrence. While sick, animals should be quarantined indoors to prevent the spread of the illness and to avoid further contact with contaminated areas. Healthy animals should be able to fight the illness without treatment, but this can take weeks. To avoid spreading active spores, treatment should be sought with the help of a veterinarian.
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