How to Treat Your Dog for Ringworm at Home: Our Experience with Hugo the Golden Retriever

How to Treat Your Dog for Ringworm at Home: Our Experience with Hugo the Golden Retriever

Ringworm is a common fungal infection in dogs that can affect their fur and skin. It's highly contagious and can be passed on to humans and other pets, so quick action is essential. When we noticed the signs of ringworm on our Golden Retriever, Hugo, we started a treatment plan to manage the infection until we could visit the vet.

Disclaimer: I am not a vet. Always consult a veterinarian for advice, but if you’re unable to see one immediately, here are some treatments that worked for us.

What Is Ringworm in Dogs?  
Despite its name, ringworm isn't caused by worms but by a type of fungus. Dogs with ringworm may show circular patches of hair loss, dry, brittle fur, and inflamed skin. In Hugo’s case, we noticed these classic signs early, which allowed us to treat him before the infection worsened. Important: Ringworm is zoonotic, meaning it can spread to humans and other pets. It’s essential to act fast if you spot these symptoms in your dog.

How We Treated Ringworm at Home

Step 1: Shaving the Area  
The first thing we did was shave the fur around the affected area to prevent the infection from spreading. Shaving also allowed us to apply topical treatments more effectively. We used a dog clipper/shaver by Wahl, designed for sensitive dog skin, which made it easier to avoid irritation.

Pro Tip: Keeping the area dry and exposed to air helps speed up healing.

Step 2: Cleaning the Skin  
Next, we thoroughly cleaned the ringworm area twice a day using a pet wound cleaner. This helped to remove any debris and keep the infection under control. Regular cleaning is vital for stopping the spread of the fungus, especially since ringworm thrives in moist environments.

Step 3: Applying an Anti-Fungal Cream  
After cleaning, we applied an anti-fungal cream that’s safe for dogs. A pet-specific antifungal cream worked well to target the fungus and soothe the skin. We found that applying the cream in thin layers twice daily significantly reduced the redness and allowed the healing process to begin.

Step 4: Protecting the Wound  
To prevent Hugo from licking the cream and further aggravating the infection, we covered the area with breathable wound plasters. These kept the cream in place and allowed the skin to heal undisturbed.

Step 5: Using a Soft Cone or Inflatable Neck Brace  
Keeping Hugo from scratching or licking the area was a challenge. We first tried a soft recovery cone, but Hugo was still able to reach the wound. We then switched to an inflatable collar, which provided more comfort and effectively stopped him from touching the area.

Preventing the Spread of Ringworm  
Ringworm can live on surfaces for months, so cleaning Hugo’s environment was crucial. We washed his bedding and toys with a pet-safe disinfectant and made sure to keep his space clean to prevent reinfection.

Final Thoughts  
While home treatments can help manage ringworm, it’s important to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. Ringworm is a stubborn infection, and in more severe cases, oral medication may be required. Our approach helped Hugo until we could see the vet, but professional care is always the best course of action.

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