Ringworm On Dogs Definition And Diagnosis

We definitely don't want our dog to have diseases, right? Especially ringworm, but first what is this ringworm, that is what we are going to explain to you now, ringworm on dogs definition and diagnosis, that to be precise, we will try our best to explain what this ringworm is and how it could be diagnosed on our dogs, and so we could take action to help our dog free from this ringworm, hopefully this will help you all who is in need desperately, especially you who probably have this problem on your dogs but don't even know it yet. Let's start from here.

Definition of Ringworm in Dogs
Ringworm is a skin infection which is caused by fungi. The name of the disease is derived from the classic ring-shaped skin lesion composed of a scaly area which is devoid of hair in the center and surrounded by a red ring on its border.

Ringworm On Dogs Definition And Diagnosis

Ringworm in dogs can also be manifested by irregular areas of scaling and crusting and is sometimes called atypical ringworm.

The most common fungal organisms that cause ringworm in dogs include Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. These fungi are prevalent in regions characterized by hot, humid climates.

The Transmission of Ringworm
Transmission of ringworm is by direct contact with infected hair of affected dogs or by spores found in the soil. The infection can also be acquired via direct contact of furniture, toys, combs, carpets, and grooming supplies which has been used by dogs with ringworm. People can get the infection from their pets and vice versa. Infected animals will continue to shed the fungal spores into the surroundings.

Ringworm On Dogs Definition And Diagnosis

The fungus infects the hair and hair follicles of dogs. Most ringworm infections have been found in puppies and young adults. Healthy adult dogs often possess resistance to the causative agent. The tell-tale lesions are typically found on the paws, tail, ears, and face. Small pustules often form within the lesion. As the infection progresses, the lesion may continue to grow in size. Ringworm has been mistaken for demodectic mange, or an autoimmune disease or bites of black flies.

By itself, ringworm is not itchy however when secondary infection sets in, itching is evident causing the dog to lick and scratch the affected area. The fungus can also invade the nails causing deformation, cracking, and brittleness. The most common secondary bacterial invader is the genus Staphyloccocus.

How To Diagnose Ringworm

Ringworm On Dogs Definition And Diagnosis

There are several ways to diagnose ringworm. Your vet can conduct one of these tests to identify the causative agent. Wood’s Test uses a black light with a magnifying lens; a microscopic test involves plucking a hair around the periphery of the lesion and placing it in a potassium hydroxide solution; a culture test is considered the most effective but will require a longer duration of time to confirm the disease. Skin scales which are collected from the lesion will be cultured to determine the presence of ringworm.

Ringworm On Dogs Definition And Diagnosis

Small, uncomplicated ringworm lesions found in healthy puppies and dogs often heal on their own within a few months. Severe cases of ringworm in dogs require adequate treatment using an antifungal medication which is applied topically. Hairs surrounding the lesion should be clipped closed to the skin. Some of the popular topical antifungals include Miconazole cream or 1% chlorhexidine ointment.

The Different Ringworm on dogs Treatment Available
In severe cases of ringworm, the use of antifungal shampoos or dips combined with the application of a topical antifungal has been found to be beneficial. Oral antifungal medications, Griseofulvin, Ketoconazole or Itraconazole can also be used. Since antifungal medications have the possibility of causing toxicity, their use should be closely supervised by a veterinarian.

Ringworm On Dogs Definition And Diagnosis

There is no vaccine which can protect your dog from ringworm. Contact with infected dogs should be avoided. Grooming supplies, boarding facilities, boarding kennels and all surfaces and objects that come into contact with the infected dog should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

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