Treatment FAQ

what is a good topical treatment of ringworm on dogs

by Ms. Lavada Schamberger DVM Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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5 Ways To Manage Ringworm In Your Dog

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has antifungal effects. Use organic, unfiltered ACV. ...
  2. Oil Of Oregano. Oil of oregano is popular for bacterial infections … especially staph infections. But it also has antifungal properties and can help with ringworm.
  3. Lemongrass Essential Oil. Lemongrass essential oil can help heal the ringworm wounds. And it can stop them from spreading. ...
  4. Neem Oil. Neem oil comes from the neem tree in India, and has many medicinal uses. It’s antifungal properties can help with ringworm.
  5. Garlic. Garlic’s an amazing food that has so many uses for dogs. ...

Rowan. He recommends terbinafine oral medication along with topical creams you apply directly on your dog's skin such as miconazole and clotrimazole. “When topical medication is used, it should be applied for 2 to 4 weeks,” Dr. Rowan says.Jun 2, 2021

Full Answer

How to treat ringworm in dogs naturally?

  • Disinfect the house of ringworm. ...
  • Steam clean all furniture or areas of the carpet where the dog always goes at the beginning and end of the treatment.
  • If your dog is suffering from a severe attack of ringworm, vacuum all the carpets to eliminate all the spores that may be in the environment. ...

What is the best medication for ringworm?

  • Griseofulvin (Grifulvin V, Gris-PEG)
  • Terbinafine
  • Itraconazole (Onmel, Sporanox)
  • Fluconazole (Diflucan)

Can you use OTC Lotrimin in your dogs ears?

This drug is generally safe for use in pets. However, you should inform your veterinarian about any other medicines that your dog is taking, as clotrimazole can react badly with certain other drugs in your dog's system. The most common side effects of clotrimazole usually include the following: Partial hearing loss; Head tilt; Dizziness

What are the signs of ringworm in dogs?

  • Dandruff-like scaling in the depths of the coat.
  • Red sores on the head, chest, forelegs and the ridge of the back.
  • Scaling, crusting, thickening and reddening of the skin.
  • Circular spots of loss of hair (alopecia) on the head, tail or the ridge of the dog or cat’s back.

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What is the fastest way to treat ringworm on a dog?

1:143:364 Best Dog Ringworm Treatments and Home Remedies - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe area the affected area three to four times a day apple cider vinegar has great naturalMoreThe area the affected area three to four times a day apple cider vinegar has great natural antifungal properties and it's also a great natural cleaner.

Can I put antifungal cream on my dog?

Antifungal creams are used topically on your dog's skin where fungal infections are present. Gloves should be worn to prevent spread, if contagious fungal infections are suspected. Antifungal creams soothe irritation and kill fungal infection.

Is there over-the-counter ringworm medicine for dogs?

Clotrimazole Cream is an over-the-counter (OTC) product used to treat fungal infections such as ringworm.

Can I use Lotrimin on my dog for ringworm?

Topical terbinafine (Lamisil) and clotrimazole (Lotrimin), are not recommended for use in pets as they do not reduce further growth of ringworm lesions. Pure Oxygen® Shampoo (accelerated hydrogen peroxide shampoo by Ogena Solutions) may eliminate ringworm spores from the coat.

What home remedy kills ringworm on dogs?

To treat ringworm with apple cider vinegar, soak a cotton wool pad in the undiluted vinegar and wipe it on the affected area. Repeat up to 3 times daily.

How do you get rid of ringworm on a dog?

The most common way to treat ringworm in dogs is to use a combination of topical therapy (application of creams, ointments, or shampoos) and systemic therapy (administration of anti-fungal drugs by mouth).

What kills ringworm instantly?

Most cases of ringworm can be treated at home. Over-the-counter antifungals can kill the fungus and promote healing. Effective medications include miconazole (Cruex), clotrimazole (Desenex) and terbinafine (Lamisil)....1. Apply a topical antifungalAntifungal cream.Antifungal lotion.Antifungal powder.

Can I use tinactin on my dog for ringworm?

Try the 1-2-3 Punch. Topical antifungals (e.g., Tinactin, Lamisil, Zeasorb) can be started at the first signs of ringworm. Other home measures include home hygiene (described above), and shampooing with an antifungal shampoo. When I noticed a gray, scaly patch on Athena's shoulder, I called my veterinarian right away.

Can I use clotrimazole cream on my dog?

Clotrimazole is a topical antifungal solution for dogs and cats used to treat fungal skin infections.

Can you use athletes foot cream for ringworm on a dog?

Apply a topical antifungal agent containing miconazole 2 percent cream or 1 percent lotion twice a dayFinally, on a nightly basis, coat your pet with Lamisil or any over the counter Athlete's Foot infection cream for two weeks. The key ingredient in each product is the same – Miconazole.

Can I use hydrocortisone cream on my dog?

You can use hydrocortisone cream on dogs to soothe minor irritations like bug bites and small rashes. Vets often recommend it to treat skin allergies, inflammatory skin diseases, infections such as hot spots, and to help decrease ear inflammation in dogs with severe ear infections, says Butzer.

Can I use ringworm cream on my dog?

Topical Therapy for Ringworm Your veterinarian will probably recommend a topical therapy, like a cream, ointment, and/or medicated shampoo to help treat and control the infection. Your vet might also suggest clipping long-haired dogs to speed up treatment and shaving the hair from affected areas.

What is the best treatment for ringworm?

There are several natural ringworm treatments made from herbs or oils and can be mixed up at home. Neem oil is made from the seeds of the Neem tree and has both anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

What is the best oil for ringworm?

Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and can be mixed with a carrier oil (olive oil or sweet almond oil) and Vitamin E. Applied to the ringworm, the mixture both soothes the skin and kills off the fungal infection.

How often should I bathe my dog for ringworm?

The shampoos can continue to be used, bathing the dog twice each week.

How long does it take for ringworm to heal in dogs?

While ringworm will heal on its own in about 2 to 4 months, you can ease your dog's discomfort by using the topical methods discussed. Whether you choose a shampoo, an anti-fungal cream or a natural remedy, consistency in application is important in alleviating the infection.

Can dogs lick Neem oil?

The Neem oil also has a bitter taste which discourages dogs from licking it off. Tinctures can be made of Calendula and applied to the lesions 2 to 3 times per day. Calendula ointment can also be applied as it has the same healing properties and can be soothing to the irritated skin.

Can creams be used on dogs?

Cream-based Medications. Cream-based anti-fungal treatments have questionable efficacy as most dogs will lick them off prior to the medication taking effect. If the ringworm is on the head or face or in an area where the dog can't reach with his tongue, the creams can be used against the infection.

Does lotrimin cream kill ringworm?

Lotrimin Cream is applied to the ringworm and absorbed into the fungal wall, weakening it and allowing fluids to leak out. This will eventually kill the fungus.

What is the best treatment for ringworm in dogs?

There are two types of treatments for ringworm: topical and oral. Because ringworm lives on top of the skin and is easily reached with ointments or creams, topical treatments are generally done first. However, for more serious cases or for dogs that regularly get ringworm, oral medication is also sometimes used.

What to do if my dog has ringworm?

If you believe your dog may have ringworm, always contact your veterinarian. Ringworm can be mistaken for other skin problems, including irritated tick bites or Lyme d isease. Your vet will help identify the cause of the problem and give you advice for treating your pet effectively. If you decide to treat your dog’s ringworm on your own, ...

What to use for ringworm patch?

For localized, smaller ringworm infections, antifungal creams and ointments are a good option. These topical solutions can be applied to a specific spot more effectively than shampoos. They can also help reduce the contagiousness of the ringworm patch.

How long does ringworm stay in your home?

Since ringworm is so infectious, it’s important to keep your home as clean as possible. Ringworm spores can remain potentially infectious for months after they are shed. When treating your pet or yourself for ringworm, you should vacuum frequently to remove shedded fur and skin cells from your home.

Why trim a dog's fur?

Trimming the fur close to the skin reduces the chances of shedding or breaking hairs. As a result, it reduces the risk of spreading infectious materials around the home and causing another ringworm outbreak later. Some dermatologists recommend this practice, although others may not. Ask your dog’s veterinarian if this is a worthwhile treatment for your dog.

Can dogs shed ringworm?

Your dog can shed ringworm spores anywhere they are allowed to go. To give yourself a better chance of keeping the infection contained, keep any animals with ringworm confined to places that are easy to clean. Keep other pets away from the infected animal as much as possible to reduce the risk of spreading the fungus.

Can ringworm be transmitted to humans?

Since ringworm can be transmitted to humans, you should be careful as well . Keep older people, young children, and anyone with skin problems or a weakened immune system away from your dog as long as it has ringworm.

What is the best treatment for ringworm in dogs?

The systemic treatment for ringworm in dogs can include the use of drugs such as Itraconazole, Griseofulvin, and Ketoconazole.

What is ringworm in dogs?

Ringworm in dogs is a superficial cutaneous fungal infection, that invades hair follicles. When a dog or cat comes into contact with an infected animal (or fomite), the dermatophytes will invade hair follicles and hair shafts. Once the dermatophytes invade the skin, they begin to germinate and grow into the hair follicles.

How long does ringworm last in dogs?

Now, it is important to remember that even during intensive medical therapy, a dog can spread ringworm for up to 3 weeks. And so maintaining environmental hygiene is crucial!

What are the main risk factors for ringworm in dogs?

Young animals, humidity, immunodeficiency, and excessive bathing are the main risk factors associated with ringworm in dogs.

How long does it take for a dog to recover from ringworm?

Systemic therapy involved medicating your pet for a minimum of 6 weeks. Systemic therapy is always used when the ringworm lesions are generalized.

Why is it important to treat ringworm?

It is important to treat ringworm medically as the fungi can cause painful lesions on the body. And, this is particularly true for immunocompromised patients!

Is ringworm contagious in dogs?

Also known as Dermatophytosis, ringworm in dogs is a contagious fungal infection that affects most mammals.

What is the best treatment for ringworm in dogs?

Oral antifungal medications that your dog takes in pill or tablet form are a good ringworm treatment for dogs, according to Dr. Rowan. He recommends terbinafine oral medication along with topical creams you apply directly on your dog’s skin such as miconazole and clotrimazole .

How to keep ringworm out of dog's house?

Since ringworm is so infectious, it’s best to keep your house clean of any shed fur, dead skin, or ringworm spores. Regular vacuuming, washing your dog’s bedding, and cleaning anything else they touch can prove helpful. And of course, proper treatment is key to preventing ringworm from spreading.

How do dogs get ringworm?

Dogs can catch ringworm either through direct contact with an affected animal or from the environment, typically while digging in dirt or rolling around. Your pooch may also get infected if they come in contact with contaminated items such as:

How long do ringworm spores stay on surfaces?

Without proper cleaning, ringworm spores can stay on some surfaces, like combs or bowls, for months.

Is ringworm a worm?

Ringworm is not a worm, but a fungal infection that causes circular-shaped hair loss with a crusty covering.

Is Ringworm a parasite?

Dr. Jay Rowan, chief veterinarian and practice owner of Paoli Vetcare in Pennsylvania, highlighted that ringworm isn’t actually a parasite. But it can be confusing because the infection often looks like it was caused by worms.

Can ringworm go away on its own?

Ringworm can go away on its own, but it will take longer than treating the infection. Your dog will also be uncomfortable and contagious for a longer period of time without treatment.

How to diagnose ringworm in dogs?

Your Veterinarian can diagnose Ringworm by looking at the skin of your dog, looking at the skin under a special ultraviolet light (called a woods light), or by examining a sample of your dog’s hair using a special test (fungal assay test called at Trichogram).

How long does ringworm last in dogs?

See multiple ringworm in dogs pictures below. In most cases, the infection will go away on its own in 1 to 3 months. However, it can make dogs uncomfortable and itchy with bare skin patches. Because of this, it is best to treat the condition with either a home remedy such as an over the counter medicated spray, shampoo or for advanced cases a prescription medication. As a preventive measure, all household areas where the dog lives will need to be vacuumed and disinfected since ringworm spores can live in the environment for up to 1 year."

How long can ringworm spores live in a dog's home?

These ringworm spores are a risk for reinfection and to humans that live in the home. Spores can survive for 1 year! To prevent reinfection, it is necessary to clean all exposed areas with a 10% bleach solution.

What to do if ringworm comes back?

If you do not see improvement in 2 weeks, revisit your Veterinarian. If after treatment the Ringworm comes back, it means the original treatment was too short. It also may be a good idea to quarantine your dog in one room until treatment is completed. Tip: Put a blanket or sheet over any dog bedding.

What does ringworm look like on dogs?

It looks like the hair has been removed in a circle or patch with a pale spot at the center. Common ringworm in dogs symptoms include crusty skin, scaling and some redness.

How do you know if your dog has ringworm?

Common ringworm in dogs symptoms include crusty skin, scaling and some redness. Odd shapes usually mean that multiple lesions joined. It is easier to see lesions on younger dogs. The disease usually occurs ten days after exposure.

What causes ringworm in dogs?

What You Need To Know: "Ringworm in dogs is caused by a fungus found in infected soil or that is spread by an infected animal. The fungus causes one or more skin lesions that can appear in many different ways, but commonly results in patches of hair loss along with crusted skin. Symptoms are often found on the feet, face, ...

What is the best treatment for ringworm?

Itraconazole (Diflucan) Fluconazole (Sporanox) Ketonazole (Nizoral) Topical anti-fungal treatments like …. Anti-fungal rinses or shampoos.

How to keep ringworm off my dog?

Ringworm thrives in damp, dirty environments … so keep your dog clean and dry. This helps make sure that ringworm never gains a foothold. Regular grooming or bathing can help you keep an eye on your dog’s skin … but don’t overbathe your dog !

How to treat ringworm with Neem oil?

It’s antifungal properties can help with ringworm. Add 5 drops of neem oil to 1 tsp jojoba oil in a glass jar. Shake well and apply three times a day to the affected areas. 5.

What causes a dog's skin to itch?

Ringworm causes skin problems, so look for abnormalities in the coat and skin. Regular brushing can help you spot these sooner. Look for scaly-looking dandruff deep in the dog’s coat, as well as red or crusty skin. Severe ringworm can cause lesions, making your dog itchy and uncomfortable.

How does ringworm spread?

Most ringworm cases spread through contact with infected animals. Sometimes contaminated grooming tools may be to blame. Ringworm in a healthy adult dog should clear up on its own. But natural treatment will speed up recovery and reduce your dog’s discomfort.

How long does it take for ringworm to clear up in dogs?

Here are 5 natural ways to manage your dog’s ringworm. Each of these remedies can take 2 to 3 weeks to clear up the problem. So be patient! Caution: Ringworm is contagious. So you may want to wear disposable latex gloves to apply these remedies. (If you’re allergic to latex, nitrile is the next best option).

What causes a ringworm on the skin?

It’s an infection of skin, hair, or nails … and it’s caused by fungus. The disease causes bald, scaly patches or acne-like bumps on the skin. These patches are usually round … hence the name ring worm. Most ringworm cases spread through contact with infected animals.

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Trim Excess Hair Around Ringworm

  • For all topical methods, it is recommended that you trim all excess hair in and around the infected area. This will not only improve the effectiveness of the topical agents by allowing full access to the infected skin, but will allow you to see if the infection is spreading.
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Anti-Fungal Shampoos

  • In cases of infection where the ringworm is fairly localized, it is common practice to bathe the dog in an anti-fungal shampoo as an initial treatment. This will allow any scaling or excess hair to be washed away from the infected area and provides a widespread removal of any fungal spores that may have spread beyond the infected area. The shampoos can continue to be used, bathing the …
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Cream-Based Medications

  1. Cream-based anti-fungal treatments have questionable efficacy as most dogs will lick them off prior to the medication taking effect. If the ringworm is on the head or face or in an area where the d...
  2. Lotrimin Cream is applied to the ringworm and absorbed into the fungal wall, weakening it and allowing fluids to leak out. This will eventually kill the fungus.
  1. Cream-based anti-fungal treatments have questionable efficacy as most dogs will lick them off prior to the medication taking effect. If the ringworm is on the head or face or in an area where the d...
  2. Lotrimin Cream is applied to the ringworm and absorbed into the fungal wall, weakening it and allowing fluids to leak out. This will eventually kill the fungus.
  3. Miconazole Cream, when applied to the ringworm, works by inhibiting the synthesis of a critical fungal cell wall component, weakening the cell wall and allowing the fungus to break down.

Natural Ringworm Treatments

  • There are several natural ringworm treatments made from herbs or oils and can be mixed up at home. 1. Neem oil is made from the seeds of the Neem tree and has both anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. The oil can be applied to a cotton swab and dabbed on the lesions 2 to 3 times a day. The Neem oil also has a bitter taste which discourages dogs from licking it off. 2. Ti…
See more on vetinfo.com

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