Canine Ringworms and internal parasites in dogs

Ringworms in Dogs
By: Tippy


The common skin condition in dogs that is popularly called Ringworm
is caused by a fungus called Dermatophytes and not a worm at
all. The reason for the common name of Ringworm is because
in humans the Dermatophytes make a raised red ring that
looks a little like a worm under the skin. In truth the
fungal infection is actually on top of the skin.
Dermatophytes means "plants that live on the skin".

There are three basic types of fungus that cause Ringworm
but the most common one that is found on dogs is Microsporum
canis. The Ringworm fungus lives on the skin and feeds on
dead tissue, skin and hair.

Unlike what many people think, Ringworm doesn't always make
a raised red ring on a dog's skin. In fact this is most
commonly seen on humans not dogs. The most common sign that
your dog may have Ringworm is that the dog may experience
irregular bald patches about the size of the tip of your
thumb.



Instead of creating a red lesion as it does in humans, the
fungus breaks the hair shaft, causing the bald patches. It
most commonly shows up on the dog's tail, paws, face and
ears. The lesions that appear in the bald patches are scaly
and may not itch at all. Often irritation and redness are
exhibited in these bald patch areas.

Incubation is ten to twelve days after exposure for the
symptoms of Ringworm to appear. Ringworm is most commonly
transmitted by the dog coming into contact with another
infected animal. In fact, your dog can catch Ringworm from
you, your children, your cat, other dogs, or any combination
thereof. In some rare cases infection can occur from
infected soil.

Fungus can live for a long time in soil if there is a
correct balance of nutrients in the soil. The spores of the
fungus are extremely hardy and can also live in environments
like your carpet, grooming equipment, bedding, and such for
a long time. This can cause reinfection when the animal
comes into contact with the spores again.

The spores from Ringworm are easily killed by using a
solution of bleach and water on all possibly infected areas.
Then take your dog to a veterinarian to get some topical
anti-fungal to treat the Ringworm. Be sure to keep your dog
in a sectioned off place when treating Ringworm and
thoroughly disinfect the area when symptoms are gone.
Remember, you can catch Ringworm too, so be careful when
handling your dog and be sure to wash your hands often.


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