Ringworm, despite its name, isn't caused by a worm at all. It's a fungal infection, specifically a dermatophyte infection, that affects the skin and hair of dogs (and humans!). Identifying ringworm can be tricky, as its appearance varies depending on the severity and location of the infection. This guide will help you understand what to look for.
What are the common signs of ringworm in dogs?
The most characteristic sign, as the name suggests, is a circular, ring-like lesion. However, not all ringworm lesions present this way. Here are some common symptoms:
- Circular, raised, scaly patches: These are often reddish or brownish and may be slightly inflamed. Hair loss within these patches is common. The outer edges of the patch are often more active, with actively spreading infection.
- Hair loss: This can be patchy or widespread, depending on the severity of the infection. It may appear as a thinning of the coat, or complete absence of hair in affected areas.
- Crusting and scaling: The skin may become dry, flaky, and crusty. These scales can be easily dislodged.
- Itchiness: While not always present, many dogs will exhibit intense itching in the affected areas, leading to scratching and potentially secondary bacterial infections.
- Red, inflamed skin: The underlying skin might appear red, inflamed, and sore.
- Thickened skin: In some cases, the infected skin can become thickened and leathery.
- Black dots: These are actually broken-off hairs, and their presence is suggestive of ringworm.
It's important to note that ringworm can affect any part of the dog's body, including the face, ears, paws, and abdomen. Some dogs may only have a few small lesions, while others can have widespread infection.
Can ringworm appear differently in dogs?
Yes, the appearance of ringworm can be quite variable. Some dogs may present with:
- Small, pinpoint lesions: These may be difficult to spot and easily mistaken for other skin conditions.
- Diffuse patches without clear borders: In these cases, the infection may not present the classic ring shape.
- Hair loss without visible lesions: The fungal infection may be causing hair loss without any obvious skin changes.
How is ringworm diagnosed in dogs?
A veterinarian can diagnose ringworm through several methods:
- Visual examination: The vet will examine your dog's skin and coat to look for characteristic lesions.
- Wood's lamp examination: This uses a special ultraviolet light to detect the fungus; however, this isn't always reliable as not all ringworm fungi fluoresce under UV light.
- Microscopic examination of skin scrapings: This is a more accurate method involving taking a sample of skin and hair and examining it under a microscope to identify fungal spores.
- Fungal culture: This involves growing a sample of the fungus in a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific type of dermatophyte.
What causes ringworm in dogs?
Ringworm is transmitted through direct or indirect contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces. Spores can persist in the environment for a long time, making it easy for a dog to become infected.
Is ringworm contagious to humans?
Yes, ringworm is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Good hygiene practices are essential to prevent transmission.
How is ringworm treated in dogs?
Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, which can be topical (applied to the skin), oral (taken by mouth), or both. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the chosen medication. Your veterinarian will guide you on the best course of treatment for your dog. Environmental decontamination is also crucial to prevent reinfection.
Remember: If you suspect your dog has ringworm, it's crucial to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention is key to prevent the spread of the infection and minimize discomfort for your pet. Don't attempt to self-treat, as improper treatment can worsen the condition.
