Canine Nail Fungal Infection

It isn̵7;t easy to know when a dog has a nail fungal infection. However, it is important to look out for and there are ways to avoid an infection from occurring.

  1. Identification

    • Dogs that spend a lot of time in wet soil areas, or moist and sandy places, develop nail fungus infections more often than other dogs. Blastomyces dermatitidis, the fungal organism that causes nail fungus infections, resides in the moldy parts of these areas.

    Vulnerable Dogs

    • Sporting and hunting dogs pick up fungal infections because they spend most of their time outdoors where fungal organisms grow. Also, for unknown reasons, male dogs are more prone to nail fungus than female dogs.

    Causes

    • A dog̵7;s diet plays a key role in the development of nail fungal infections. Vitamins and minerals are important for maintaining healthy skin and nails. They also help boost a dog̵7;s immune system to fight infections.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Canine nail fungal infections can be prevented by rinsing a dog̵7;s feet whenever it has been outside in a moist environment, giving him a regular bath for good hygiene and providing vitamin- and mineral-rich food.

    Warning

    • Excessive licking can also cause nail fungal infection by spreading bacteria from other parts of the body to the feet and nails.