Skin fungus in dogs
Ringworm is a common problem in dogs. The fungus affects the dog’s skin and hair, which can manifest as circular bald patches, scaling, and/or crusts. Ringworm in dogs is also highly contagious, including to humans, so it is important to act as quickly as possible when your dog has a fungal infection to prevent further spread.
The causes of a ringworm infection in dogs
Several types of fungal spores can cause ringworm in dogs, including Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Trichophyton gypseum. Fungi spread through spores. Spores are microscopic seeds of the fungus. These seeds can survive very well, and for a long time, even under extreme conditions. Because the spores can survive in the environment for a long time, ringworm is difficult to treat. You may treat your dog thoroughly and effectively for ringworm, but if the animal enters an environment where spores are present, you may have to start all over again.
Ringworm in dogs is highly contagious
As mentioned, the fungus spreads through spores. This often happens when dogs come into contact with one another, for example during walks or when a dog joins a dog-walking service. The dogs are then relatively close together, making transmission of ringworm very easy.
Another way fungal spores spread is through indirect contact, such as via brushes, collars, and dog beds. Once the spores have settled, the ringworm multiplies rapidly. This produces a large number of new fungal spores. They spread not only across the bodies of the four-legged animals, but also throughout the environment, allowing ringworm to spread to other dogs and other potential hosts. The latter can also be a human.
What is a zoonosis ?
Fungal spores can infect not only other animals, but people too. This is known as a zoonosis. A zoonosis can cause a skin condition in humans called ringworm. If you develop round, red patches on your skin, contact your doctor.
In short, a zoonosis is a condition that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
Symptoms of ringworm in dogs
Not every animal reacts to ringworm in the same way. Your pet may even simply be a ‘carrier’ and show no symptoms caused by the fungus. In most cases, ringworm occurs in dogs with reduced immunity. That is why it is more common in young dogs, older animals, or animals with another illness. Animals suffering from fleas are also more susceptible to fungal infections. If your dog has any of the symptoms below, visit the vet as soon as possible for further examination.
- Round, scaly bald spots or larger bald patches that look irritated and inflamed
- Crusty skin inflammations
- Greasy coat
- Loose hair
The treatment of a ringworm infection in dogs
Treating a fungal infection in dogs is not as simple as you might initially think. An early diagnosis and a corresponding timely start to treatment are very important for dogs with ringworm. Even so, in many cases it can take weeks before the ringworm is actually under control.
To begin with, the dog must be washed with a special antifungal medication. This kills the fungus, but not the spores. The spores are located under the skin, and it is only a matter of days before they develop into fungus. It is therefore important to also give the dog an injection containing antimycotic medication. This eliminates the spores from within. The antimycotic medication must first reach the coat. When fungi subsequently absorb keratin from the coat, they also take in the antimycotic medication.
Hygiene to prevent a recurring fungal infection
A dog can also contract a fungal infection indirectly. In addition to treating the dog itself, it is therefore important to disinfect the environment. Thorough hygiene measures in the environment of your four-legged companions with ringworm are essential; otherwise, it is only a matter of time before the dog becomes infected again. If you have other animals in the household, they should also be treated. In addition, all objects the dog has been in contact with must be cleaned and washed. This includes toys, beds, the sofa, brushes, combs, collars, leads, blankets, and much more. The areas where the dog stays must also be cleaned thoroughly. This includes vacuuming and mopping properly. In some cases, an antifungal agent may be needed when cleaning the environment.
