Whose afraid of a Little Fungus? Ringworm, No Big Deal

I was bit of a jock in my younger years and spent a lot of time playing sports and using gym showers. It was not uncommon for me or my fellow team members to get athlete’s foot. If you have had it, you will know that it is a fungal skin infection that is not too serious and very treatable. It’s more of an annoyance than anything else.

Contrary to what many people think, ringworm is also just a fungus, very similar to athlete’s foot, and has absolutely nothing to do with worms. It is out there in the environment and it is not unusual for pet dogs and cats to get it. It’s easily treated and goes away within a few weeks without any lasting effect. Even so, many animals, especially kittens, lose their lives at animal shelters across the country simply because they have ringworm. This is sad and unnecessary since it is completely treatable.

At Nevada Humane Society, we value all life and believe that ringworm is nothing more than an inconvenience and certainly not a reason to end the lives of otherwise healthy animals. Instead, we work to ensure that kittens with ringworm get the treatment and care they need so they can go on to have long, happy lives.

Large numbers of kittens arrive in our shelter each week during the summer months. The shelter environment is not the best for young vulnerable animals so we are very dependent upon foster homes.

Finding foster homes for those that have ringworm can be extra challenging since so many people don’t really know what it is and worry about getting it. Actually, just by taking a few reasonable precautions, you can foster ringworm kittens without worry that you or your other pets will get it too.

All you need is:

• A little extra time to give them their medication.


• A room that does not have carpeting so it will be easy to sanitize and they can be kept separate from other animals—a spare bathroom works wonderfully or we can loan you a cage. 


• Disposable rubber gloves and gowns (if desired) can be provided.

Ringworm kitties are exactly like non-ringworm kitties with the exception that they have to be segregated from other pets until the infection clears up. They are cute, play with exuberance, and will amuse you with their antics. We are committed to the care and treatment of all kittens and hope you will be willing to help.

Could you be one of the special compassionate people who will help these kittens? If so, contact Nikole at 775-856-2000 ext. 321. 

Events that Help Homeless Pets

Reno is Petown through July 31 at Nevada Humane Society. Adopt your very own “Dog Vinci,” “Cattisse,” or “Petcasso” at reduced fees. Adult cats and dogs (4 months and older) that have been in the shelter over three months are free. Other adult cats are $ 25 and other adult dogs are $ 50. Kittens are just $ 40. Shelter located at 2825 Longley Lane, Reno.

Nevada Humane Society’s Pawspective Art Show on Saturday, July 14 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm, celebrates local artists, animals, and nature featuring a wide variety of animal subjects, artistic styles, and mediums.

Duck Race & Festival to benefit Nevada Humane Society, August 28, 11 am – 5 pm at Wingfield Park. Adopt a rubber duck for $ 5, help homeless pets, and have a chance to win great prizes! For more information or to adopt a duck, visit NevadaHumaneSociety.org.