Ringworm also known as dermatophytosis may sound like a worm or parasite but it is actually a fungus which lives on keratin found in skin, hair and nails of your dog, cat or other pet.

Ringworm is spread through contact with another infected animal or through contact with the actual fungal spores called arthrospores. When an animal is infected with ringworm sheaths, arthrospores are produced and can be found around the infected areas hair strands, skin, or nails. These spores then scatter throughout the environment, and can be found in carpeting, furniture, bedding and even in your air filters. The spores are also very resistant and can live in the environment for up to 18 months. This is why treatment for ringworm must also include a thorough cleaning regiment to rid the environment of any spores that could reinfect your animal. This can be done by disinfecting your home. Remove and replace all used air filters in the home. Thorough vacuuming of the carpeting and subsequent removal of the vacuum bags can also assist in ridding the home of spores. The  use of ringworm fighting disinfectant is recommended.

Ringworm is very contagious, and is the most common zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be transferred from animals to humans, and its rate of infection is rising. So if your pet has ringworm you must take certain precautions to protect yourself, such as using gloves to handle your pet, and wearing an apron or clothing that you wash subsequent to handling the pet. Ringworm on humans can affect skin on anywhere your body. 

For human ringworm treatment click here.

Ringworm on Dog

Ringworm on Cat and Human

Symptoms of Ringworm in Pets

• Loss of hair in circular patterns
• Hair loss in irregular patterns
• Scaly skin
• Redness or itchiness
• Deformed nails and claws

Treatment of Ringworm on Dogs, Cats and Other Animals

Treatment is usually given through applying topical antifungal medicine or giving oral medications. ringworm can be very difficult to treat. Generally you must have a consultation from a veterinarian before a treatment will be prescribed. Be patient if your animal has ringworm, successful treatment can take weeks to months to fully rid your pet of ringworm. Finally, as stated earlier, you must be aware of the risk of infection to you and other pets in your home, as well as the steps you must take to clean your home of any spores that may be present and which could cause infection.

Dermisil for Pet Ringworm Products

• Dermisil Dog Vitamins help improve your pet's overall health and help him fight the ringworm fungus and possible infections that may result from the subsequent scratching.
• Dermisil for Pet Ringworm combined with Dermisil Herbal Pet Shampoo provides a powerful and effective topical treatment for pet ringworm.
• Benzarid Environmental Spray kills ringworm fungal spores from your pet's environment, bedding etc..
• SulfaDip provides a powerful and effective ringworm treatment for larger or feral animals such as horses, sheep, and cows.

With our total Dermisil for Pet Ringworm system, Ringworm doesn't stand a chance!