Ringworm is a common yet serious problem that dogs often can get. While it is treatable, you need to be careful when trying to heal your dog, as if not done right, will only cause their ringworm problem to worsen. Below you’ll find more information about this disease and how you can treat canine ringworm.
What is Ringworm in Dogs?
Dermatophytosis, better known as ringworm, is a fungal infection that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, hair, and nails. It can hurt your dog’s immune system which can cause problems such as dry skin, excessive itchiness, and dandruff.
Can Dogs Get Ringworm?
Yes, dogs can absolutely get ringworm. Unfortunately, because they tend to be around many animals and walk and sniff in dirty places, ringworm is a common problem in dogs.
How Do Dogs Get Ringworm?
There are a few different ways a dog can get ringworm. The first, and most common, is when they come into contact with an animal or human who might have the disease. It could also be spread if your dog comes into contact with certain objects affected with ringworm, like a brush, piece of furniture, or bedding, which can cause your dog to get this disease.
If your dog has a skin infection, it could also invite ringworm to enter the wound or oozing areas. Sometimes soil also could have ringworm in it, especially if many animals play in or use that area, which could then cause it to be passed to your dog when they sniff or play in that spot.
Is Ringworm in Dogs Contagious?
Dog ringworm can be contagious as it can spread to both animals and humans. This is especially so for those who might have a weaker immune system. Because of this, it’s best to stay away from a dog that has ringworm or use extreme caution and always wash your hands and clean off areas where they might have been.
How to Prevent the Spreading of Ringworm
There are a few ways you can help to prevent ringworm from spreading if your dog has it.
Always Wash Your Hands
After petting your dog or handling something used by them, always make sure to thoroughly wash your hands. While a simple pat on the head might not seem like much, it can transmit bacteria to your hands. If you don’t wash them, it will then spread on your body. Because of this, you always want to make sure to wash your hands with warm water and soap.
Keep the Environment Clean
Another way to prevent ringworm from dog from spreading is to vigorously clean the areas where they tend to be. While it might take some time and effort, by making sure to vacuum up hair and wiping off tables and furniture that they might have touched, you can help to prevent ringworm from spreading and lingering around in a certain environment.
Always Clean Their Bowls and Toys
In addition to household items, you should also make sure to clean their bowls and toys, especially if you have other animals who might use them. You should rinse them with soapy warm water and vinegar to help kill off any ringworm bacteria that might be on them. This will not only help to protect other pets, but keep your dog healthy.
Are Certain Dogs More Susceptible to Ringworm Than Others?
While there is no one breed that is particularly prone to getting ringworm, puppies, elderly dogs, and those with long hair tend to get it often. Puppies and older dogs usually get it because their immune system isn’t very good. On the other hand, long-haired dogs tend to get ringworm because of their long and thick hair which can make it difficult to clean and see beginning symptoms.
