Fort Hunt Animal Hospital in Alexandria, VA, offers innovative pet care services and veterinarian treatment for all family pets. Our vet care program includes treating ringworm and other skin infections. Our veterinarian team is committed to treating and caring for your pet.
Ringworm is a skin infection sourced from exposure to a fungus. This infection gets its name from the circular rash that appears on the skin. While it is painful and irritating, it is not life-threatening.
Our licensed vet treats the infection and shortens the time your pet must suffer from it. Eliminating the fungus and keeping your pet as comfortable as possible is essential.
Ringworm Prevention
Ringworm prevention is obtained by deep cleaning and disinfecting areas around the house. Maintaining cleaning to remove dead skin cells and loose fur is critical in preventing fungus transmission.
Suppose your pet picks up a ringworm infection. In that case, you should take immediate preventative measures for yourself and others, such as keeping a safe distance from your pet until our licensed veterinarian resolves the problem.
Ringworm Symptoms
Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but is a fungal infection that can affect the skin, hair, and nails of animals, including pets. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted between pets and humans. Here are the common symptoms of ringworm in pets:
- Broken or brittle nails
- Hair loss
- Scaly, reddened, crusty skin
Ringworm Infection in Your Pet
If you suspect a ringworm infection in your pet, it's important to take prompt action to prevent the spread of the infection to other pets or humans in your household. Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect both animals and people. Here's what to do if you suspect your pet has a ringworm infection:
Contact our veterinarian or vet care clinic.
- Isolate the infected pet until the fungus is gone.
- Avoid close contact with the infected pet.
- Keep your home space clean.
- Often disinfect the area where the infected pet is kept.
- Wash and disinfect the pet’s bedding often.
- Don’t miss checkup appointments with your vet.
Ringworm Treatment Options
As soon as your pet is diagnosed with a ringworm infection, treatment to eliminate it begins. A lab will test fur and skin cultures to confirm the diagnosis. Afterward, our veterinarian will discuss treatment options with you. The following are the three considerations for ringworm treatment:
- Topical treatments, like medicated shampoo, cream, or ointment.
- Oral anti-fungal prescription medications.
- Daily decontamination in the home and the area where the infected pet is kept.
Obtain Ringworm Prevention or Treatment
Fort Hunt Animal Hospital in Alexandria, VA, is your pet care provider focused on wellness and healing for all pets, regardless of age or breed. We are ready to serve you.
If you suspect your pet has a ringworm issue, get vet care immediately. Call us at (703) 360-6100 or complete our online appointment request form. Let’s end your pet’s suffering from ringworm today.
