Ringworm is a common name for fungal infection of the skin. The correct name is DERMATOMYCOSIS. As the fungus spreads it causes circular patterns of hair loss and crusting hence giving it the name “Ringworm”.
“Where did my pet get Ringworm?”
Often this is a difficult question for us to answer. Although there are three main fungi that cause ringworm there are many others around that are less common. Infection can be from many sources. It is possible for dogs and cats to catch ringworm from their owners who may not be showing obvious signs. Cats can carry the fungus sometimes without showing signs. Also the fungal spores can live in the environment for up to year. All of these factors can make it difficult for us to determine where the infection came from.
“Can I catch Ringworm from my pet?”
Yes you can. It is more commonly seen affecting young children rather than adults but this does not mean adults do no need to take care. Look for circular red lesions, which may or may not be itchy. If you notice anything suspicious it is a good idea to visit your doctor who can prescribe the correct treatment for you or your family.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is often preformed by the vet doing a general physical exam. Signs to look for include small areas of circular hair loss. There may be one or several of these patches over the body. They are generally scaly and red. An ultra-violet light is used as one of the fungi that causes ringworm may fluoresce. A negative result with the ultra-violet light does not mean that the fungus causing ringworm is not present. Diagnosis is generally confirmed by the local specialist laboratory on a hair pluck and/or skin scraping sample.
Treatment:
While your pet is undergoing treatment it is important that he/she is confined and kept out of contact with other animals and people. This will help to reduce contaminating the environment and passing the infection onto other animals and people.
Treatment may include anti-fungal tablets, washes and/or creams.
Environmental control and home care:
Because the fungus causing ringworm can live for a long period of time it is important that the environment is cleaned as much as possible.
- Keep all other animals separated to reduce the chance of cross infection
- Wash all washable surfaces with undiluted bleach. This includes benches, kennels etc.
- Vacuum all of your furniture and carpets thoroughly twice weekly - throw away the vaccum bag (or burn it)
- Wash any bedding that your dog has come into contact with twice weekly
- Wash brushes, combs, collars and leads etc with hot water and detergent.
- Air conditioner filters should be replaced weekly during the decontamination phase.
- Bath other animals weekly in Dermcare Malaseb to help reduce the chance of infection.
- If possible use disposable bedding for the affected animal and dispose of it daily.
Revisit:
Please bring your pet back for a recheck in 7 – 10 days. Occasionally treatment will need to be extended and it is for this reason that it important you do bring your pet back to be rechecked.
