Ringworm is a skin infection that is acquired by many dogs. Although this sounds like a worm, it is triggered by a fungus. This infection may be transferred by contact- other animals, humans, bedding ,or brushes, etc.
Your dog may have round red spots or scaly skin, or even have lost its hair, and this may be because of the presence of ringworm. The good bit is that it can be managed at home with safe and natural remedies.
In this blog, we tell you how to identify ringworm as well as how to treat ringworm in a natural manner, and when to visit a veterinary nurse. Once properly taken care of, your dog will be fine within a short time.
Can Dogs Get Ringworm?
Dogs can indeed have ringworm. It is not a worm but fungus infection of the skin. Dogs with weak immunity can easily contract it, especially the puppies. Ringworm is highly contagious and it can be transmitted by direct contact or by sharing such items as blankets, toys or brushes.
Though this infection only causes trouble to dogs, it is also transmittable to human beings. It then makes it significant to always treat fast, and making everything clean in the household.
Your dog could have ringworm, especially in case you see some areas of hair loss and dry or scaly skin. The quicker you do that, the quicker they will recover.
Natural Remedies for Ringworm in Dogs
With your dog suffering ringworm, you can make the treatment through home at ease using natural methods. These solutions are harmless taken in moderation.
A powerful antifungal is apple cider vinegar. Stir it to add some water and apply it on the region with a cotton ball.
Coconut oil is effective as well. It calms the skin and prevents the fungus growth.
Aloe vera gel is excellent in healing. It soothes the skin and assists in redness.
Neem oil is strong yet powerful. Its amount should be small and never allow your dog to lick it.
The spots may also be covered by turmeric paste. It combats fungus and assists in decreasing the swelling.
Apply either one of them between 1 and 2 times in a day. Clean and apply properly. In case everything does not improve, seek assistance of your vet.
How to Cure Ringworm in Dogs Safely at Home
Curing ringworm at home can be long process, yet it can be possible by showing care and patience. First, brush your dog’s skin and hair every single day. Use a soft material and a little bit soap. This aids to eliminate fungus and dirt.
Then, bathe everything that your dog happens to contact – any bedding, his brushes, toys – everything gets washed. Ringworm can linger on these things so wash them frequently.
Cut the fur off around the infected area so that air can reach the skin and heal faster.
Keep the dog separated from other pets while he doesn’t heal. Ringworm is extremely contagious by way of direct contact.
Use natural cures such as a coconut oil or apple cider vinegar once or twice a day. Continue with this therapy for two weeks to four weeks, depending upon improvement in skin condition.
Forever be on the lookout for changes. If it doesn’t get better contact your vet.
When to Call a Vet
There are natural treatments that are useful yet they are not effective to all dogs. Contact your vet when nothing gets better, ringworm expands, or worsens after one or two weeks.
When your dog feels pain, has a fever or does not eat, then it is time to seek medical assistance.
Additionally, the sick, or otherwise health-challenged, dogs may require more intense care. As a vet, one will understand what is the safest and the most effective treatment in regard to your pet.
How to Prevent Ringworm in Dogs
The ringworm can be easier to prevent than cure. The most appropriate is by maintaining clean and dry skin of your dog. Put them to frequent baths and dry thoroughly after them.
Wash the beddings and other toys belonging to the cat and even the collars regularly to get rid of germs and fungus. Dogs should never interchange brushes, beds, or even collars, because in case one of them has a problem with the skin.
When grooming, make sure you find out whether your dog has dry skin, shedding, or red rings on the skin. Early detection of symptoms prevents its spread.
In case you have a puppy make them not to play with the dogs that are infected with ringworm. Puppies are low immuned and are easily prone to sickness.
You might maintain your dog healthy and free of ringworm by means of good hygiene and check-ups.
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