De-Worm Your Dog Now
It is usually believed that ringworms are induced by worm infestation. On the contrary they are caused by fungus (Dermatophytes) that can affect both humans and animals. There are various species of ringworms and the most common form of ringworms in dogs is Mircosporum Canis.
How are ringworms transmitted to dogs?
Ringworms are infectious disease and the dogs are infected by these fungi through their surroundings such as kennel and burrows. It can also go from rodents or other affected animals or humans and visa versa.
Found in carpets, beddings and grooming equipments, the fungal spores can inhabit in the environs for virtually thirteen months. The dogs can be infected when they come in contact with these surroundings.
Symptoms:
A bruise on the skin is one of the symptons of ringworms. Unlike, ringworms in humans, it is not necessary in the shape of a ring. Forming an irregular shape, the hailess lesion will grow in size. They are usually found on the face, ears, tail and paw the dog. They may or may not be itchy, but the affected area is reddened and inflamed.
Are all dogs vulnerable to ringworms?
A healthy and adult dog is less prone to ringworms in comparison to young puppies as their immune system is yet to fully develop. Many dogs may be carriers of ringworms but may not show any sign of symptoms, but can still transmit the infection to humans and other animals.
Diagnoses and treatment of ringworms in dogs:
Infected dogs, or dogs with symptoms should be taken to a vet for dignosis and treatment of ringworms. Plucking hair from the infected area and examining it under the ultra violet light is one of the ways this diagnosis is can be undertaken. If the diagnosis shows an infection, the veterinarian will recommend anti fungal pills or topical medication like shampoos and creams.
Precautions to forestall transmission to humans and re-infection in dogs:
* Throw Away any items used by the infected pet, such as bedding, brushes, combs, scratching posts and blankets. If a number of the items are not destroyable, then they must be soaked in hot water and lodophor or betadine solution for about an hour. After that, they should be washed and rinsed utilizing water and chlorine bleach combination. Preferably dry them in open sunlight. * Dispose the vacuum bag after vacuuming the house exhaustively. * Steam-wash all carpets and upholstery and wash the walls with water and chlorine bleach mixture. Dispose the air filter if any. * Keep kids away from infected pets and wear gloves while grooming the dog and handling any grooming equipments. Clip the dog nails and cut the hair to insure hygienic conditions.
Ringworms in dogs can be treated but they are highly infectious. It also takes time for convalescence. Therefore it is best to take all precautionary steps and visit the vet in time for proper diagnosis and treatment.
