Ringworm

Photos of Ringworm on Dogs

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What is Ringworm?
Despite the name, ringworm is not a “worm” of any kind. They call it ringworm because of the red looking rings (circles) that appear on the scalp, body, foot and / or nails. Ringworm itself is a fungus infection that lives on the surface of the skin feeding on hair & skin tissue.

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What Are the Symptoms & Signs of Ringworm?
On people as the rash expands, the center clears and leaves red looking rings (circles). On dogs, it can also appear this way. However, dogs with ringworm are pretty easy to notice. They usually have small round or irregular shape lesions / patches / circles on their skin that are hairless.  Skin can be scaly, itchy, red, & inflamed. Ringworm can be anywhere on the body or all over the body.

Is Ringworm Contagious?
Yes, it is highly contagious to other pets and also to people. Ringworm is spread by direct (skin-to-skin) contact or even indirect contact. (by contacting an object that the infected pet has interacted with)

How is Ringworm Diagnosed?
There are several ways to determine ringworm.
1. The vet can look at the spots under a wood’s lamp (which is basically a black light, also know as an ultra violet lamp.) The ringworm will glow under the light.
2. A skin culture : your vet might do a skin scrap where they send it off to the laboratory so they can determine what culture is growing your pets skin.
3. Or your vet might just want to look at the skins scrape under the microscope.

What is the Treatment for Ringworm?
Answer: Anti fungal drugs, anti creams and / or specialized shampoo’s or “dips.”

What Age will My Dog Most Likely Get Ringworm?
Answer: Any breed and any age of dog can get ringworm. However, younger dogs & puppies are more likely to pick it up because their immune system hasn’t fully developed yet.

Disclaimer: We Are NOT Licensed Vets.  DO NOT try to diagnose or treat animals based off this or any other information you find on the internet.  This page is just BASIC INFORMATION  to help bring awareness to the different health issues that are common in animals.  If your pet is having any kind of medical issue, please seek PROPER professional treatment from a licensed vet who is trained and set up to handle such matters.