Effective Treatments for Fungal Skin Infections in Dogs

Section 1: Causes of Fungal Skin Diseases in Dogs

1. Fungal skin diseases in dogs are primarily influenced by factors such as climate, age, and constitution. Areas with high humidity and warm climates are more prone to fungal skin infections, and dogs with poor nutrition and weakened immune systems are more susceptible.

2. Prolonged use of high doses of corticosteroids can weaken a dog's immune response, making them more susceptible to fungal infections.

According to clinical statistics, five types of molds have been identified as causing canine skin mold infections: Microsporum canis, Trichophyton, Geotrichum, Mucor, and Ophiostoma. Microsporum canis is the most common, followed by Geotrichum, Trichophyton, and Ophiostoma. Mucor is only found in a few countries, such as Australia, and has a low incidence rate.

Section 2: Clinical Symptoms of Canine Ringworm Caused by Fungi

1. Microsporum canis

This fungus is widespread globally and is responsible for over 70% of cases. It can infect both humans and animals. The primary symptom is the formation of small, circular crusts on the skin surface, known as "ringworm." These crusts can appear anywhere on a dog's body, but are most common on the ears, face, neck, and tail. The disease is characterized by crust formation and is often not accompanied by hair loss. In cases with few lesions, especially in longhaired dogs, the disease may be difficult to detect. Scalp ringworm caused by Microsporum canis is quite common.

2. Geotrichum

Geotrichum, which lives in soil worldwide, can cause skin mold infections in dogs, as well as other animals and humans. The disease is acute and severe, with extensive skin lesions. In addition to the symptoms similar to those of Microsporum canis, it can also cause large areas of skin to lose hair, develop dandruff and crusts, and become secondary bacterial infections, with pus oozing from the affected areas. Treatment can be lengthy.

3. Ophiostoma and Trichophyton

These fungi can cause canine skin mold infections, which are rare. They can also infect humans, with Ophiostoma primarily leading to scalp ringworm in children and Trichophyton being the main cause of athlete's foot in the United States. Dogs are often infected due to contact with patients.

Section 3: Epidemic Characteristics of Canine Fungal Maculosis

1. Molds have a high survival and resistance capacity, can寄生 on animals and plants, and spread through dust, presenting numerous opportunities for transmission.

2. Transmission primarily occurs through direct contact, but indirect infection can also occur through contact with contaminated items such as brushes, scissors, and bedding.

3. It is a zoonotic disease, affecting both humans and animals.

Section 4: Prevention and Treatment Measures for Canine Fungal Skin Diseases

1. Some skin mold diseases have a selflimiting tendency and can heal without treatment.

2. Early treatment of the disease can be achieved through topical medications, but severe chronic skin mold infections require both internal and external treatment.

3. For topical treatment, first wash away the skin scales and crusts, shave the hair, and then apply antibacterial ointments.

4. For internal treatment, the preferred medication is Griseofulvin, which can be mixed with oily food to enhance absorption. Pregnant dogs should not use this medication to avoid fetal deformities. Other oral medications include Ketoconazole, which can irritate the stomach and cause itching and allergic reactions in some dogs. If severe reactions occur, the medication should be discontinued and alternative treatments should be sought.

5. Dogs with Hong Kong ringworm should be isolated and treated promptly. During treatment, it is important to improve nutrition and maintain hygiene; feed highprotein food and supplement various vitamins and trace elements to enhance the dog's resistance.

6. Pay attention to public health and prevent transmission between dogs and humans. Dogs with various skin mold diseases can infect humans, particularly children who are most sensitive to molds, often developing scalp and body ringworm due to contact with dogs. Dogowning families should be vigilant. Additionally, be cautious not to transmit the disease from the owner to the pet.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on canine fungal skin diseases, click on "The Difference Between Dog Pyoderma and Fungal Infections" to learn more.