Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects a dog's skin. It is transmitted by spores found in the soil or on affected dogs. Typically, spores can be found on just about any surface a ringworm-infested dog comes in contact with: on the carpet, on grooming utensils, on toys and on furniture. Perhaps the most relevant issue about ringworm is how easily it is transmitted to other dogs and people, especially children.
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Symptoms
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Before you try to treat ringworm, it is important to recognize the symptoms that characterize an infestation. Ringworm should not be confused with other skin conditions, such as demodectic mange, a black fly bite or an infection of the hair follicles. Ideally, ringworm should be properly diagnosed by a veterinarian via skin culture.
The name ringworm originates from the appearance of the lesions found on affected dogs. Typically, the lesions assume the shape of a round circle without hair. The center of the lesion often exhibits scaly skin while the surrounding area appears as a red circle. The hair surrounding the lesions may often assume a greenish tint when examined under an ultraviolet light.
Ringworm lesions are not itchy. However, when the lesion becomes aggravated by an infection, the dog may feel compelled to lick and scratch the area.The most common cause of ringworm is a fungus known as Microsporum canis.
Home Treatments
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While mild cases of ringworm generally resolve themselves of their own accord within three to four months, the condition should still be treated to prevent transmission to humans and other dogs.
A good starting point is to trim the hair surrounding the lesions. This does a lot in preventing the fungus from spreading to other areas of the dog's skin. These trimmings should be repeated as soon as the hair lengthens again. Because the spores thrive on hair, it is imperative to remove the clipped hair and discard it carefully, to keep it out of the reach of other pets and people.
According to the book ''Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," a trip to the pharmacy may often help dogs affected by mild ringworm that is limited to a couple of lesions. Products to look for include Miconazole 2 percent cream or Miconazole 1 percent lotion. Such products will benefit the dog when they are applied twice a day to the affected areas (ensuring that the dog does not lick them off) for about four to six weeks.
For dogs affected by more lesions, the aforementioned anti-fungal product may be accompanied by an anti-fungal Miconazole shampoo or another shampoo that is specifically labeled as being effective against ringworm and safe to use in dogs. Treatment should continue for at least two weeks after apparent recovery.
Conclusion
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Ringworm can be difficult treat, yet it's very easy to spread. According to ''The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies for Dogs and Cats,'' it is very important that owners of pets affected by ringworm carefully disinfect the pet's living areas. Combs, scissors and grooming supplies should be cleaned in a solution of 1 part bleach and 32 parts water. Hands should be also rinsed in such a solution, and then cleaned with soap and water after handling a dog affected by ringworm.
While home remedies may be effective, dogs with a lot of large and weepy lesions may require greater care. These dogs may need a prescription medication that kills the fungus while stopping infections in their tracks.
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