Effective Treatment for Dog Ringworm: Home Remedies and
Dog ringworm is a fungal skin disease. The main causes of fungal skin diseases generally include three types: Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Microsporum gypseum, with Microsporum canis being the most prevalent. Lesions typically appear on a dog's head, paws, ears, and forelimbs, characterized by scaly, circular spots and inflammation, as well as hair loss. Moreover, dog ringworm is contagious, so pet owners must isolate affected dogs.
Ringworm often affects puppies with weakened immune systems, so it's crucial for pet owners to supplement their dogs' diets with vitamins to boost their skin's resistance. Now that we've covered the basics of dog ringworm, let's delve into how to treat it effectively.
How to Treat Dog Ringworm?
1. Isolation and Disinfection
Isolation: Since ringworm is contagious, not only to other pets but also to humans, it's essential to keep the affected dog in a separate area. Pet owners should wash their hands frequently and maintain good hygiene to prevent selfinfection.
Disinfecting the Lesions: Next, the affected areas need to be disinfected. Use an animal hair clipper to remove the hair around the lesions and then use medical cotton dipped in alcohol to clean the area, removing any dirt or debris.
Environmental Disinfection: While treating the dog, it's also important to clean and disinfect the home. Poor hygiene can contribute to the occurrence of ringworm. Use a disinfectant like Puroclean to eliminate harmful bacteria, improve the home environment, and prevent the spread of the disease at its source.
2. Antifungal Treatment
Treatment for dog ringworm should be tailored to the severity of the condition. Mild cases usually involve localized lesions, which are easier to treat, while severe cases can be more challenging.
Local Treatment: After disinfection, apply an antifungal ointment like Fungalan to the lesions using a cotton swab or spray an antifungal spray like Fenoral on the affected areas. This can be combined with antifungal oral medication.
Severe Treatment: For more severe cases, a fullbody shave may be necessary. While systemic treatments with ointments or sprays can be lengthy, it's generally recommended to opt for medicated baths and oral antifungal drugs.
During Treatment
Elizabethan Collar: To prevent the dog from licking the wounds or ingesting the medication, place an Elizabethan collar on the dog.
Vitamin Supplementation: Since ringworm often occurs due to weakened skin resistance, supplement the dog's diet with vitamins during treatment. Puroclean's multivitamin supplement, rich in 21 vitamins and various trace elements, not only meets the nutritional needs of dogs and cats but also promotes wound healing, improves coat health, and protects vision.
By following these steps and maintaining a clean environment, you can effectively treat and manage dog ringworm, ensuring your furry friend stays healthy and happy.