Ringworm Treatment for Dogs

Many people have a misconception that ringworm in dogs is a skin infection which is caused by some kind of a dog worm. But it is actually a skin disorder caused by a fungus, and is commonly found in dogs. This skin infection is not very severe, and a veterinarian may suggest different measures and treatments for its cure. The results of the treatments may differ and depend on several factors like how the dog responds to the treatment, how frequently is the treatment given, and which is the treatment being used. In some cases, this disease may infect puppies, but as the immune system of puppies is strong, the infection heals without the need of any treatment. Ringworm can be transmitted from pets to humans and vice versa. The ringworm treatment for dogs recommended by veterinarian may depend completely on the severity of the infection.

Treatment for Ringworm in Dogs

Griseofulvin
This is a special oral tablet which has proven effective in the treatment to cure ringworm in dogs. It works it way deep into the hair follicles where it reaches the infected site and aids in curing the disease. Infected dogs should receive it daily for at least a month. You should also take the dog to the veterinarian periodically to ensure that the tablets are effective enough to cure the infection and any other dog health problem. These medicaments are not absorbed by the stomach unless there is a considerable amount of fat present when the medicine is administered. If the dog's stomach does not have enough fat, you need to feed the dog with a dog food rich in fat. If you know that the fat consumption has caused some problem for the dog earlier, you need to inform the veterinarian beforehand. Like 'griseofulvin', there are many other tablets that are used in the treatment of ringworm.

Topical Anti-fungal Medications
There are many anti-fungal medications available in the market which aid in curing the infection. You may get information about them from the veterinarian. An anti-fungal medication should be applied to the infected area once a day, continuously for 10 days. Ensure that it does not come in contact with the eyes while applying it on the infected area.

Anti-fungal Shampoos
You should bathe your dog three times every alternate day using an anti-fungal shampoo. Such baths are very necessary in getting the spores off the hair so they don't spread and infect other dogs or humans. The veterinarian may recommend such baths as a supportive measure with the regular treatment.

Lime Sulfur Dip
In addition to being a treatment method, this is also a measure to maintain the dog's health. For the first two weeks, this solution has to be applied twice a week, then once in a week in a continuation of 4-6 weeks. It should also be applied to other uninfected pets to preclude them from being infected. Ensure that you wear gloves while applying it. This is also one of the most effective treatments for ringworm in dogs.

Shearing Off Dog's Hair
The veterinarian will recommend shearing off the dog's hair only when the infection is widely spread all over the body. You may ask the veterinarian if you can remove all the hair before starting with other ringworm treatments.

The most effective ringworm treatment for dogs is the anti-fungal medication. However, before taking any further steps regarding treatment for ringworm in dogs or any other dog illness, it is highly recommended that you consult a certified and reputed veterinarian.