Although your dog having ringworm doesn't seem too harmful initially, it can lead to bigger problems if left untreated. Our Argyle vets explain everything a dog owner should know about ringworm, including identifying, and treating it.
What is ringworm?
Surprisingly, ringworm is not in the same category as hookworm, roundworm, or tapeworm. This fungus is not actually a worm at all! Ringworm is a fungal infection, similar to athlete's foot. It gets its name from the ring-like/worm-like shape it leaves on skin. A telltale sign of ringworm is the formation of raised (due to swelling) and red skin rashes in a semi-circle or circular shape.
What does ringworm look like on a dog?
Ringworm characteristically appears in a circular or ring-shaped pattern on the skin, usually causing the skin to turn red, lose hair, and swell up.
Ringworm in your dog may not present itself in such a noticeable manner, so you should keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
- Inflamed, red skin rash
- Scales that look like dandruff
- Itchiness (pruritus)
- Dry, brittle hair with hair follicles that break easily
- Circular or patchy areas of hair loss (alopecia)
- Darkened skin (hyperpigmentation)
- Reddened skin (erythema)
- Scabs or raised nodular lesions on the skin
- Inflamed folds of the skin around the claws, or bordering the nails
If you notice any combination of these symptoms in your pup, contact a vet immediately.
How does a dog get ringworm?
Ringworm can be spread through direct contact with an infected animal or from an object that has been contaminated such as towels, food or water bowls, couches, or carpet. The fungus spores can survive for months, which means ringworm can be spread through the fur that your dog has already shed. The fungus can also remain on surfaces or get trapped in the fibers of carpets, drapes, linens, etc. in your home if they’re not cleaned.
Dogs often get this fungal infection from playing outdoors, as some forms of the fungus can live freely in the soil. Your dog's immune system may be able to fight the fungus off, or it may turn into a localized or more widespread skin infection, depending on factors such as your pet’s overall health, the species of fungus, part of the body affected, the dog’s age, etc.
Sometimes, a pet can be a ringworm carrier without showing any visible symptoms. If your dog has been diagnosed with ringworm, it is a good idea to have your other pets checked by a veterinarian to be safe. You should also alert any fellow dog owners and dog-walking buddies that your dog has been infected and is being treated and that they should watch for signs of ringworm in their pets.
Can humans get ringworm?
Yes. Ringworm is contagious to humans if you have broken skin that comes in contact with the infected dog. People with weaker immune systems are more at risk of catching ringworm from dogs, including young children, elderly people, and people who are immunocompromised.
How is ringworm treated?
If your pet is diagnosed with ringworm, there are a variety of good treatments available. Your vet will help you choose the solution best suited for your dog depending on the severity of their ringworm problem.
The treatment process is fairly straightforward with few complications if the fungus is treated in a timely fashion.
Your vet will likely prescribe your pup a topical medication to apply to the skin or an anti-fungal medication that can be taken orally. It may also be recommended that you get an environmental decontamination of your house to eliminate any contaminated elements.
Additionally, your vet may recommend shaving the fur around the more infected areas of your dog.
Do not assume your dog is cured because they stop showing symptoms. Continue with the treatment until your dog has been deemed cured by your vet.
How long should a dog with ringworm be quarantined?
A dog with ringworm should be quarantined from the rest of the family, pets included, for at least six weeks. The best way to do this is to dedicate a room in your home to this animal. Do not let anyone or anything else into this room. Frequently wash and disinfect any surfaces in the room to kill the fungus' spores. Although this might sound difficult, it should be infinitely easier, and much less expensive, than having to constantly battle ringworm.
How do I prevent my dog from catching ringworm?
Ringworm is most often contracted from other already infected animals, so the best prevention is to keep them away from that situation. Make sure your dog goes for its annual checkups, and is in good health, and it will be less likely to contract ringworm. Additionally, don't let your dog dig in rodent holes, as this is also how infection often occurs.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.