Dog Health Questions

What is Ringworm?

Ringworm, also referred to as dermaphytosis, is a highly contagious fungal infection of the skin. It typically affects the scalp, body and nails. Ringworm tends to affect younger animals more frequently. Pets with weakened immune systems or pre-existing skin disorders are also more susceptible to ringworm.

What Causes Ringworm?

This infection is transmitted directly from one animal to the other animal. Pets may also spread the infection to people or it may be spread from person to person. Because fungi is part and parcel of our environment, this infection in pets may also be spread indirectly by sharing food and water bowls, hair brushes, sleeping environments or digging in contaminated soil.

There are three types of fungi that cause ringworm and these include Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes:

* In cats, most cases of ringworm develop as a result of Microsporum canis
* In dogs, most cases of ringworm develop as a result of Microsporum gypseum
* Both dogs and cats may develop ringworm as a result of Trichophyton mentagrophytes if they are exposed to rodents or the burrows they inhabit.

Diagnosing Ringworm

The diagnosis is based on the appearance of the skin as well as performing certain diagnostic tests. Tests such as a complete blood count (CBC), biochemical profile, urinalysis and fungal culture may be performed. In addition, further tests such as a Woods lamp examination as well as microscopic examination of hairs may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis of ringworm.
Symptoms and signs

The most common symptoms and signs of ringworm include:

* Small patches or circular areas of hair loss
* Inflamed, scaly skin
* Scratching and itchiness

Help for Ringworm

Treatment involves various oral and topical medications, vaccinations against ringworm as well as proper hygiene and sanitation of your home and pet’s environment. In some pets, ringworm resolves by itself. However, medications can cure the infection and speed recovery. Oral medications such as Griseofulvin, Ketoconazole or lufenuron may be prescribed but have been known to cause serious side effects.

Topical treatments such as shampoos and anti-fungal creams are used to reduce infection in other people and animals. Your pet’s hair will be clipped in order for treatment to be more effective.

While vaccinations for ringworm are available, they are not effective alone and should be used in conjunction with oral or topical therapy. Make sure that you clean your home and pet’s environment thoroughly with sodium hypochlorite solution (bleach) and avoid contact with other pets.

Recommended Product

Ring-Ex is a 100% natural treatment for ringworms. It contains a blend of natural, herbal and aromatherapy ingredients in an olive oil base, all specially selected to promote healthy skin. Applied topically, Ring-Ex will also help to maintain a healthy coat. It comes in a convenient 30 ml dropper bottle and is easy to apply.

While conventional medicine works by often treating just the symptoms, natural medicine strives to create a holistic balance. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, the natural ingredients in this treatment support overall health and functioning. Results should be noted within several days of using Ring-Ex regularly. Extended use over several weeks will provide ongoing skin support. If you would like to find out more about this product, then please click here.