Overview of Ringworm in Dogs
What is Ringworm?
The name "Ringworm" is actually quite misleading in regards to the related medical condition. Ringworm is now known to be caused by a fungal infection, and not by a worm. It was originally thought that the infection known as "Ringworm" was caused by a worm which infected certain animals, and created a circular lesion on an animal when it curled up underneath the skin.
Due to current veterinary technology, we now know that Ringworm is caused by a fungal infection, and not by a worm. There are a few different types of fungus that can cause Ringworm, which is scientifically known as being called "Dermatophytosis".
What does Ringworm look like?
A dog that is infected with Ringworm may or may not have the characteristic circular lesions that are commonly associated with this condition. While it is possible for the lesions to be circular in shape, often they are oblong or patchy. This can make Ringworm a bit difficult to diagnose, as it is sometimes mistaken (upon visual inspection by a veterinarian) for other skin conditions. Since Ringworm infects the hair follicles, these lesions will usually be hairless, and may or may not be scaly, red or itching. The symptoms associated with Ringworm are mostly physical, aside from the discomfort a dog may experience from this infection.
What dogs can be infected by Ringworm?
Since the fungus that cause Ringworm are native to most of the world, Ringworm does not necessarily have to be region specific. However, as with most fungus, Ringworm is more common in areas with a hot, humid climate. Though all dogs could possibly become infected with Ringworm, it is much more commonly seen in dogs that have underdeveloped or weak immune systems. This is why Ringworm is frequently seen in puppies, since their immune systems have not yet had sufficient time to develop. Ringworm is also sometimes present in dogs that are immunocompromised, or who are experiencing a previously existing illness.
How is Ringworm transmitted?
Since this disease is skin-based, it is easily transmissible from an infected dog to other animals. Contact with infected hair, dead skin, or other materials is often times enough to promote transmission of the infection. Ringworm is not species-specific, and can infect humans, cats, dogs and other small animals. If you have a dog that is infected with Ringworm, it is very important to isolate your dog from any of your other pets. Also, it is highly recommended that you sterilize any objects that come into contact with your infected dog, as this is also a common method of transmission. Besides direct contact with an infected animal, the fungus that causes Ringworm may also be transmitted through contact with infected soil or other organic materials.
Is Ringworm fatal?
Since Ringworm is caused by a fungal infection, it is not fatal to your dog. Even in severe cases, Ringworm can be treated by administration of anti-fungal medication (either as a topical ointment, shampoo, or oral medication). Since Ringworm has the visible symptom of creating lesions on a dog's skin, most pet owners are able to catch this disease fairly early, which improves the effectiveness of treatment.