Dog Ring Worm

Dog Worm

A common misconception about the ringworm is that it is a wormlike parasite like the tapeworm, which makes sense given the name, but it is actually a fungal infection of the skin. This does not mean that the ringworm isn't harmful though, so make sure you are prepared to take care of the problem if you suspect your dog has it.

Ringworms - What are they?

Microsporum canis, popularly known as the ringworm, is a fungal infection which is highly contagious and easily transmitted from animals to humans. It is the kind of fungus which gives almost the same symptoms on humans, cats, dogs or other animals. The infection is typically caught due to wet fur and poor hygiene and can spread rapidly, so treatment should be started as soon as the ringworm is detected and special care should be taken so that the infection does not spread to the other members of your family.

Ringworms - Symptoms on dog

Ringworms can be seen on a dog as a hairless patch in a circular pattern � this ring shape explains where the name �ringworm� originated from. These are typically found on the head, tail, ears and feet of the dog and the outer edge of the ring may look like a rash with the skin in the center appearing as healing skin that will heal itself in time. Through the use of a blacklight the fungus may appear flourescent. The ringworm is not really irritating but your dog may gnaw at the area a little bit. There's a good chance that he may not even notice it at all.

Ringworms - Symptoms on human

Ringworms have different effects on humans than they do on dogs. It will resemble red ring-shaped, raised blotches with a lighter color in the center. Unlike with dogs, the ringworm may feel extremely itchy and irritating on an infected human and scratching it will only make it spread. If the ringworm is on a hairy area such as your head it will be very evident as the hair around the infected area will fall out, leaving a bald patch.

Ringworms - Are they contagious?

Ringworms are very contagious. It's very important to avoid petting an infected dog, particularly if you are the parent of young children. If you absolutely must touch the dog, you should wear protective gloves, make sure that you as stay far away from the infected area as you can, and wash your hands thoroughly immediately afterward. While the ringworm isn't a very dangerous disease, you don't want to end up spreading it to the people you come into contact with.

Ringworms - Treatment

It's actually very simple and easy to cure your ringworm problem � You just need to get a topical anti-fungal treatment that contains miconazole and clotrimazole. You can find the human version at most pharmacies, but to treat your dog you'll have to go to your veterinarian to get the proper drug made specifically for pets.