How to Know When Ringworm in a Puppy Is Healing

Ringworm is a fungal disease that presents itself in mammals, and while it is not common in adult dogs, it is far more common in puppies. This condition results in small, circular areas of hair loss — the hairs are typically broken by the base, as though they were cut off. At the center of this bald patch is a crusty, bumpy and irritated lesion. Ringworm is treated with different types of medicinal cream given to you by a veterinarian, and when you suspect that your puppy may be healing, you can perform a few simple tests to make sure that the infection is subsiding.

Instructions

1


Monitor the area of infection. Typical ringworm lesions are circular rings with a healed area at the center. When the lesion begins to heal, this ring disappears and leaves an even-looking patch of skin.




2





Check for any new lesions, particularly around the paws, tail, face, tips of the ears. These are the most common areas of infection.




3





Shine an ultraviolet light on the area of your puppy’s infection. If the area is still infected, the broken hairs surrounding the lesion fluoresce.




4





Watch for hair to grow back at the spot of the lesion.




5





Monitor your puppy’s behavior. Lesions sometimes itch, and their scratching may lead to pussy or further irritated skin. If your puppy continues scratching, he may not be healing properly.