Friday 21 March 2014

ZOONOTIC


Zoonotic diseases, are diseases that can be passed either from us to our dogs or visa versa.
One of theses zoonotic conditions is Ringworm. Ringworm is not actually a worm but a contagious fungal disease, affecting the skin.

Ringworm got is name by the circular raised red rings on the skin looking like a worm. On dogs their is circular hair loss and a dry sometimes itchy skin lesion. This lesion will become inflamed and spread easily if bothered with.
Generally dogs with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to ringworm. So the very young and very old dogs are at risk. Other predisposing factors are stress, poor diet, shelter life, and cancer to name a few.
One the most simple ways to determine if the lesions are indeed ringworm is put a fluorescent light on the area suspected. If the lesions shine fluorescent green the dog or yourself has ringworm. Unfortunately after further research not all species of ringworm fungus shine green.
Your dogs veterinarian will run a culture to determine for sure.

Holistic treatments:
Home remedy dab Apple cider vinegar on affected skin often throughout the day for 1 to 3 days or until the lesions dry up and heal. Tea tree oil is another option of treatment.

Your dog's veterinarian will prescribe a fungal cream and possibly antibiotics for secondary infections in the skin. Remember its contagious to yourself and your pets so handle with care!
 

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