Although ringworm is frequently thought of as a human infection, it is also very common in dogs and other animals. It is extremely infectious and easily passes from pet to human or human to pet. Being aware of its symptoms and signs is very important when sharing your home with animals.
Typically ringworm can be seen in dogs through patches of lost hair. The fungus lives in hair follicles which causes the hair to sever. Dogs can easily spread their infection to other parts of their body by itching. In humans ringworm can be seen as red circular rashes with healthy skin in the center of the rash. scratching can spread ringworm in humans as well. It can also be spread through blankets and bedding in both humans and dogs.
If your dogs is showing signs of ringworm it is probably time to take it to your local veterinarian. The vet will be able to take a sample of the skin and make a correct diagnosis. The veterinarian can determine the correct course for treatment once the test results come back. There are several treatment options available. All are reasonably easy to put into practice but must be carried through to the extremely end to make sure the rash will not reoccur. Since ringworm has a 10 incubation period between exposure and actual signs to the rash, it can be difficult to fully eliminate. Thoroughness in cleaning of the all potential areas of contact is essential. Medication will most likely be prescribed to your dog and should be given on a every day basis. Although there are creams that can be given to dogs, on average they do not work merely because it is easy for your dog to rub or lick the cream off. The most efficient kind of treatment is through an anti fungal shampoo. Anti-fungal shampoo is the most effective treatment for dogs due to its capability to cover the whole body with the anti-fungal medication. This helps destroy any existing ringworm fungus spores that might have not yet developed into a observable rash.
Because ringworm spreads so easily its important to treat your house as well as your dog. Cleanse any areas wherever your dog frequents in the home.Don't forget to wash the dog's bed every day. And avoid contact with your dog until the rash is completely gone. The shampoo provided by your vet can be used to cleanse the dog's bedding. The one thing above all else you should do is follow the treatment program wholly to the end. Once the fungus is gone it may be a good idea to take your dog back to the vet for a follow up exam just to make sure the ringworm fungus is completely gone.
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