Ringworm in dog

Ringworm, or Dermatophytosis, is a fungal condition that infects dogs, cats, and people. A variety of fungi can cause ringworm, some of which may be difficult to diagnose. Most cases of Dermatophytosis in dogs are caused by Microsporum gypseum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, or Microsporum canis. These fungi are most often found in warm, wet climates, though, oddly, cases of ringworm infection seem to cluster in the winter and fall.

Direct contact with an infected animal is not necessary for transmission of ringworm. Animals with ringworm can shed spores for over 18 months. Healthy animals that come into contact with anything a diseased animal has touched can pick up the spores. As a result, your dog may contract ringworm at any kennel, grooming facility, or home where an infected animal has visited. Still, ringworm infects only a small percentage of domestic dogs because many dogs’ immune systems are able to combat the infection.