Ringworm is not actually caused by worms but by a fungus that can be spread from dogs, cats and humans. Your pet can contract ringworm by either a plant or from another dog that has the fungus. The fungus resides in your pet's facial hair follicles which in turn causes the hair to break away, resulting in what looks like a circle with raised edges on the skin. The fungus becomes apparent usually 10 days after initial exposure.
Things You'll Need
- Griseofulvin tablets
- Gloves
- Pet hair clippers
- Anti-fungal medicated pet shampoo
- Bleach
- Clean towel
- Canned dog food
Instructions
Take a trip to the veterinarian to diagnose your pet's condition. Your veterinarian can usually determine if your dog has ringworm by investigating the area in question with a special ultraviolet light called a wood's light. Additional testing may be necessary if results cannot be determined by a wood's light alone.
Feed your pet canned dog food prior to giving your pet Griseofulvin tablets for best results if your veterinarian has prescribed them. In order for the tablets to be absorbed there has to be fat in your dog's stomach.
Use an anti-fungal treatment cream or shampoo that your vet prescribes to apply to the skin for up to 10 days.
Bathe your pet three times a week every other day outside if possible with an anti-fungal medicated shampoo. Follow the directions on the bottle for the amount of time to leave the shampoo on your pet during bathing and for aftercare.
Use hair clippers to safely remove hair surrounding the area that is infected. Wear gloves to avoid cross contamination and possible infection to yourself.
Launder all blankets and fabrics that your dog may have come in contact with using bleach. Using gloves, wipe down all exposed areas with bleach.