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Treating Ringworm in Dogs


8 Mar 2010

Ringworm in dogs is very common. Lots of other animals, including the human animal are also susceptible to ringworm. A key feature of this fungus is that it is highly communicable, and is easily passed from animals to humans and vise versa. Thus it is crucial to know what the symptoms are in both dogs and humans.

One of the easiest ways to spot ringworm in dogs is through missing patches of fur. Ringworm hardens the skin and fur follicles which causes the fur to break off at the base. The ringworm dog skin in the area of the infection will appear as a red raised circular rash. It may look kind of hard or encrusted, with the middle area appearing mostly natural.

You will probably notice your dog scratching the spot given that the ringworm rash is extremely itchy. Try and keep your dog from scratching the infection if at all possible. Scratching will cause the rash to spread. If the animal is free to wander around the abode it can easily spread the rash to its owner through direct or indirect contact.

The best way to determine if your dog has ringworm it to have your vet check him out. The vet can scrape the skin and take a sample for an accurate analysis. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, which may take several days, the vet can then prescribe the suitable treatment. There are numerous treatments available. None are tough. But persistence in treatment is the key to victory. The growth period between exposure and occurrence with ringworm is ten days. If you do not totally rid your dog or home of ringworm re-infestation can occur. You will need to stay on top of it and put in the work so it can be eliminated promptly.

The initial step is to begin treating your dog. Your vet might prescribe medicine, cream or shampoo. Usually the medication prescribed for your dog should be given daily. Creams as medication, while recommended for humans, by and large do not work on dogs as they tend to lick or rub them off. Anti-fungal shampoos are typically more effective in treating dogs and other animals. Shampoo is effective on dogs as you wash the full body, not only the infection. This helps clean up the existing rash as well as any fungus spores that may have not entirely incubated.

Along with treatment of the dog itself, it is imperative to take care of your home for ringworm. Wash your dog's bedcovers everyday with bleach and hot water. Steer clear of direct contact with your dog to avoid becoming contaminated yourself. If you have other dogs or cats living in your house make sure that you treat them as well. The shampoo provided by your vet can be used to clean the dog's bedding. The one thing above all else you ought to do is follow the treatment plan wholly to the end. Once the visible fungus is gone it may be an excellent idea to take your dog back to the vet for a follow up exam just to make sure the ringworm fungus is finally gone.

Precisely spotting ringworm in you dog is crucial to successful treatment. For more information click on the link http://RingwormRemedy.com.slhost3.com

Debbie Foster is the owner of Pet Beds Unlimited and an animal enthusiast. You’ll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers, small dog beds, large dog beds, pet strollers and more at http://petbedsunlimited.com.