The word lichen is used in everyday life when bald spots appear on an animal. However, this name hides diseases with different pathogens, external symptoms and treatment methods. They are not classified as complex or incurable, and only one is transmitted to humans. In this article, we will look at what lichen in a dog looks like in a photo, signs and treatment of skin lesions of various origins.
- What does pityriasis rosea look like?
- Initial signs of pityriasis versicolor.
- Signs of weeping lichen in the initial stage.
How can a dog get shingles?
Ringworm in dogs is fungal and viral in nature. A four-legged friend can “catch” the disease in several ways:
- through direct contact with a sick animal;
- through household items (bowl, leash, collar, comb, etc.) belonging to an infected dog;
- through soil, grass and so on.
The likelihood of developing lichen increases significantly if the animal has reduced immunity. This condition may be caused by the dog’s pregnancy or lactation, a recent infectious disease, or a poor diet. The protective forces are also reduced if the pet has been taking corticosteroids for a long time, as well as if he has a malignant tumor.
Stray animals and those living in poor conditions constitute a special risk group. Dampness, lack of hygiene, high density (for example, in shelters) and other factors provoke the rapid spread of fungus.
Note: dogs with long and thick hair require special attention from owners. Due to the nature of their hair, their skin is poorly ventilated, which makes such pets the most vulnerable to infection.
What is lichen
Fungi and viruses actively infect the upper layer of the epidermis; their spores can be transmitted through contact with a sick animal, at home or on a walk. The vitality of fungi is colossal; they are little bothered by low or high temperatures; they calmly wait for their finest hour on different surfaces.
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Fungi called trichophytosis and microsporia are not particularly different from each other; the treatment regimen for them is almost identical. Their spores land on the skin or fur, infecting a weakened animal. Their vital activity and its products affect the upper layers of the skin, follicles, and hairs. The weakened fur begins to fall out, break off, and soon a painful-looking spot appears. At the sight of it, the owners clutch their heads, and for good reason - they urgently take medical action against the infection.
Photos of lichen in dogs
Symptoms at the onset of the disease
What symptoms of ringworm in dogs should you pay attention to first? The latent period of the disease, on average, lasts about 10-14 days, depending on the type of lichen. Only after this do signs of the disease become noticeable.
At the initial stage of deprivation, the owner will notice the following manifestations:
- the animal scratches the same place;
- in the area of itching, superficial skin damage is noticeable in the form of discoloration, broken hairs, cracks, peeling and others;
- gradually the spot increases, new lesions appear;
- the dog becomes lethargic.
In most cases, skin lesions occur on the pet's paws, lower abdomen, and face.
Action must be taken quickly, as the disease is spreading at high speed. In addition, reduced immunity and damaged skin surface favor the addition of a bacterial infection and the development of other diseases.
Dog Owner Stories
Valeria: “My shepherd dog developed some kind of black crust on his nose, then the hair in this area began to fall out. The vet diagnosed it as ringworm. We were prescribed Imaverol. They told me to treat the affected area of the nose once every 3-4 days for 2 months. They also prescribed Clotrimazole ointment to smear my nose with. Additionally, they advised to give the dog vitamins. After the first treatment with Imaverol, the dog’s nose turned red and there was ichor in some places. It scared us. But, after 3 days everything began to dry out, and a week later new hairs of fur began to appear on the nose. We managed to completely get rid of lichen in 1.5 months.”
Sergey: “My Yorkie got shingles after the show. We received 2 Microderm injections. One was done immediately at the appointment, the second was done 10 days later. During breaks, I treated the affected areas with Yam ointment. We got rid of this infection quite quickly. During the treatment period, we went with the dog to live in the country so as not to infect the children and the cat.”
Marina: “I always thought that only cats have lichen. Therefore, I didn’t pay much attention when my dog’s hair began to fall out around his eye and redness appeared. The first days I lubricated this area with iodine. It seemed to me that this would be right. But when, after a week, the spot began to increase in size, and the dog began to try to scratch the eye, I got scared. My husband and I took her to the vet. Only there I found out that it was lichen. The doctor immediately prescribed Itraconazole tablets and forbade me to smear the area with iodine. Instead of iodine, he advised treating the wound with Fukortsin. We were treated for almost 2 months. If I had known earlier how dogs get lichen, we would have cured the dog faster.”
Photos of lichen in dogs
Types of lichen in dogs
Several types of lichen are diagnosed in dogs, each of which has its own nature, symptoms and treatment approaches. That is why veterinarians insist that if they discover suspicious spots on their pet’s skin, the owners should immediately contact the clinic. At the same time, every owner should know what this or that type of disease looks like. This will allow you to quickly take preventive measures for household members (some fungi can be transmitted to humans) and for the animal (to stop further spread).
Pityriasis rosea
Pityriasis rosea is an allergic reaction to an infection, presumably of a viral nature. Most experts associate the development of this type of disease in domestic dogs with a genetic predisposition. Skin lesions, as a rule, occur against the background of viral diseases of the digestive tract, respiratory system, and after vaccinations.
Pityriasis rosea in dogs
Pityriasis rosea is characterized by a chronic course, so it is not possible to completely cure the animal. The disease occurs every time the pet’s immune system activity decreases: under stress, poor diet, and frequent illness. At the same time, the dog is not a source of danger to other animals and humans. However, if they have the same predisposition and low immunity, the likelihood of infection - even if it is miniscule - exists.
How to recognize pityriasis rosea in a domestic dog? This type is characterized by the following clinical picture:
- spots do not exceed 2 cm;
- the affected areas have a pink tint with a yellowish center;
- the bulk of the rashes are localized in the groin, on the face;
- the lesions are gradually destroyed with the formation of yellow areas with peeling of the epidermis.
Attention: pityriasis rosea can be complicated by the penetration of fungi, bacteria, and viruses into the skin, so treatment should not be delayed.
Ringworm
Ringworm on a dog's face
Ringworm is the dog’s body’s immune response to an allergen; eczema, which is not based on an infectious nature. An allergen can be any substance (medicine, food, etc.), hormonal disorders. The disease is chronic and manifests itself with the following clinical picture:
- swelling appears on the surface of the skin, hot to the touch, itchy and painful;
- bubbles gradually form in their place;
- baldness occurs in the affected area;
- discharge from the blisters gradually becomes purulent;
- The most common localization is the cheeks, tailbone, and neck.
As the skin heals, it becomes crusty, revealing healthy tissue underneath.
Since tinea versicolor brings significant pain to the dog in the form of itching, it begins to scratch the skin vigorously. This can cause an increase in the area of the affected areas and the addition of infection.
Ringworm
Ringworm in a dog
Unlike previous types, ringworm (clipped) is a fungal disease. Its development is caused by the penetration of fungi of the genus Microsporum or Trichophyton into the skin, causing, respectively, microsporosis or trichophytosis. Ringworm is a dangerous and contagious disease that can be identified by the following signs:
- small skin lesions (about 20 mm);
- color of spots – from pinkish to brown;
- their outline is clearly visible;
- localization – base of the tail, limbs;
- severe itching;
- baldness of the affected areas.
The infection is characterized by a rapid rate of spread. If no action is taken, the fungus can lead to the death of the dog in a short period of time.
Pityriasis versicolor
Pityriasis versicolor in a dog
This type of disease is caused by a yeast fungus of the genus Malassezia, which normally lives on the surface of the skin of not only dogs, but also other animals and people. In the absence of damage to the epidermis and strong immunity, the microorganism does not show aggression. Otherwise, the fungus multiplies vigorously, releasing large quantities of caustic acid, which literally “corrodes” the epidermis.
Another name for lichen is multicolored. This is due to the different shades of the lesions: pinkish, brown, brownish. Another sign is baldness in the affected areas. Since the spots quickly enlarge and merge, the disease can spread throughout the dog’s entire body in a short time.
Professional treatment
The disease requires an integrated approach to treatment. The full course lasts from 6 to 8 weeks. This is due to the high survivability of fungal spores. It is impossible to completely cure a dog if you use only local treatment of the affected areas. To increase efficiency, treatment measures are carried out simultaneously with disinfection of the animal’s habitat and care items.
initial stage
While the area of the affected areas of the dog’s skin is not very large, it is enough to treat the affected areas with external antifungal and anti-inflammatory agents:
- creams;
- emulsions;
- ointments;
- sprays;
- shampoos.
Read more about popular external medications further in our article.
Severe (advanced) stage
In case of a large degree of damage and an advanced form of the pathology, it is necessary to give oral medications simultaneously with the treatment of diseased areas of the skin.
The most effective are:
- griseofulvin;
- ketoconazole;
- fluconazole;
- terbinafine;
- intraconazole
All these drugs are also used to treat humans. The veterinarian must select the product and calculate the permissible dosage.
Important!
Simultaneously with the treatment procedures, everything that the sick dog has come into contact with is disinfected.
External preparations – solutions, ointments, sprays
Ointment Yam Bk
A popular external fungicidal-bactericidal agent that has no analogues. It is highly effective against fungal diseases. It has been used in veterinary medicine for a long time. The product is low-toxic and safe for animals of all ages and conditions.
Contains: tar, salicylic acid, sulfur, turpentine, petroleum jelly, zinc oxide, creolin, lanolin.
How to use: apply a thin layer to the affected areas and around them (3-4 cm) with a special spatula 2-3 times a day for 7-10 days.
What it treats: ringworm, shingles.
Price: 20 mg pack. – 75 rub./18 UAH.
Fungin
A dermatological agent with an antifungal effect is available in the form of sprays and solutions. The main active ingredient is clotrimazole. The drug relieves the animal from itching and effectively destroys pathogenic cells. Has wound healing properties.
Contains: sulfur, glycerin, propolis.
How to use: the product is applied to and around the affected areas using a cotton swab or sterile gauze and gently rubbed into the skin. The procedure is repeated once a day for 10-14 days.
What it treats: ringworm, pityriasis versicolor.
Price: solution (30 ml.) – 310 rub./85 UAH; spray (30 ml.) – 415 RUR/115 UAH.
Clotrimazole
The antifungal agent is based on synthetic imidazole. The active component suppresses the proliferation of the fungus and causes its death.
How to use: Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected areas of the skin, covering the area around them. The procedure is repeated 3-4 times a day for 3-4 weeks.
What it treats: pityriasis versicolor.
Price: tube (20 g.) – 185 rub./31 UAH.
Sanoderm
Complex action cream based on betamethasone, gentamicin and clotrimazole. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic effects. Effective against fungi.
How to use: apply a thin layer to affected areas 2 times a day for 2-4 weeks.
What it treats: ringworm.
Price: tube (15 g.) – 110 rub./55 UAH.
Fukortsin
The solution, popularly called “red brilliant green,” has an antiseptic and disinfectant effect. Contains: boric acid, phenol, acetone and resorcinol. The product is toxic and should not be licked off.
How to use: the affected areas are lubricated with the solution 3 times a day until complete healing.
What it treats: shingles, ringworm.
Price: bottle (25 ml.) – 40 rub./10 UAH.
Imaverol
An effective antifungal emulsion based on enilconazole. The active substance destroys fungal spores at the cellular level. Used in complex therapy. The product is safe, acts in the superficial layers of the skin, and is quickly removed.
How to use: before use, dilute the emulsion with boiled water at room temperature (1:50). The affected areas of the skin are treated with a cotton pad once every 4 days.
What it treats: ringworm.
Price: bottle (100 ml.) – 1450 rub./845 UAH.
Oral medications – capsules, tablets
Griseofulvin
Antifungal antibiotic based on the substance Griseofulvin. Has a cumulative effect. The active ingredient of the drug stops the proliferation of the fungus.
How to use: Give dogs 1 tablet 4 times a day during feeding. The course of treatment is 14-20 days.
What it treats: ringworm.
Price: pack (20 tablets) – 220 rub./45 UAH.
Ketoconazole
Tablets with antifungal, fungistatic and antiandrogenic effects. The drug is considered potent.
How to use: give to animals with food at a dosage of 5-10 mg/kg every 10-12 hours or once a day at a rate of 10-20 mg/kg.
What it treats: ringworm, weeping lichen.
Price: packaging (10 tablets) – 150 rub./130 UAH.
Fluconazole
A synthetic antifungal agent inhibits the activity of fungi. It is excreted unchanged through the dog's kidneys.
How to use: give to animals along with food at a dosage of 10-20 mg/kg 2 times a day.
What it treats: ringworm, weeping, pityriasis versicolor.
Price: packaging (10 tablets) – 35 rub./12 UAH.
Terbinafine
Tablets with pronounced antimycotic and anti-inflammatory effects are prescribed as part of complex therapy. Shows activity against pathogens of dermatomycosis.
How to use: give to animals with food once a day at a dosage of 20-30 mg/kg.
What it treats: pityriasis versicolor (lichen versicolor).
Price: pack (10 tablets) – 140 rub./45 UAH.
Intraconazole
The most effective medicine in the treatment of ringworm. Itraconazole suppresses the proliferation of the fungus and prevents it from developing. Available in capsule form.
How to use: give to animals with food once a day at a dosage of 10 mg/kg. The course of treatment is up to 1 month.
What it treats: ringworm.
Price: pack (14 drops) – 320 rub./43 UAH.
Therapeutic vaccines
The most effective in the treatment of lichen are therapeutic and prophylactic vaccines. For medicinal purposes, injections are given 2-3 times with an interval of 10-14 days.
The following drugs are used to vaccinate dogs:
- Polivac TM;
- Vakderm-F;
- Microderm.
How to know if treatment is helping
Signs indicating that therapy is effective:
- In the affected areas, crusts are actively separated.
- New fur begins to grow on the bald patches.
- Skin redness disappears.
- The itching goes away and the dog itches less.
It is possible to finally ensure that the treatment has achieved its goal only in a clinical setting. There, the dog is examined under a Wood's lamp and scrapings and cultures are taken. Only after two negative tests performed at monthly intervals can we talk about the dog’s complete healing.
Diagnostics
Before treating a dog for lichen, it is necessary to diagnose the identified pathology and differentiate it from other skin diseases. Ringworm in dogs can be confused with diseases such as dermatosis, pyoderma, seborrheic eczema, pityriasis versicolor and pityriasis rosea.
The following methods are used for diagnosis:
- illumination with a Wood's lamp;
- wool analysis (seeding);
- skin biopsy.
Microscopic examination reveals the presence/absence of spores and mycelium; culture makes it possible to determine the type of fungus. In addition, laboratory tests of the pet’s urine and blood are required. Additionally, the doctor may prescribe allergy tests and tests.
Prevention of infection and vaccination
Is vaccination effective in preventing shingles in dogs? Vaccine manufacturers claim that it is effective, but even without being a veterinarian, any owner can suspect a catch. Even if you understand the issue within the framework of one type of lichen, it becomes clear that its causative agent can be 10, 20, or even 100 varieties of fungal cultures.
Is it possible to invent a drug that will allow a dog to develop immunity to all types of pathogens? An even more interesting question is whether it is possible to develop immunity to fungi?
Research shows that people and animals are vulnerable to fungal infection only against the background of general weakness of the body. For example, if your dog has recently had a viral illness, been vaccinated, or has been infected with worms or other parasites, he is likely to become infected with fungal diseases from the carrier or the environment. If the pet receives decent care and is healthy, even with direct contact with spores, the risk of infection tends to zero.
However, vaccines exist to prevent shingles in dogs:
- Therapeutic drugs and vaccines – Microderm, Vakderm.
- Complex vaccines – Polivac, Biocan M.
Therapeutic drugs are used both for prevention and directly for treating infected animals. Therapeutic drugs have a wide spectrum of action, adversely affecting pathogens of fungal and parasitic skin diseases. The downside of these drugs is toxicity and serious stress on the liver. The course of treatment is usually 2-3 injections, after which the dog needs therapy that restores the liver.
Complex vaccines involve the prevention of not only lichen, but also other viral diseases. These are the vaccines that most veterinarians and owners choose. Vaccines have no proven effectiveness in preventing specific fungal diseases, but the experience of owners shows that vaccinated animals tolerate diseases more easily.
What can you do to speed up your recovery?
How to cure a dog from lichen without causing complications? The main condition is strict adherence to the recommendations of the veterinarian. The animal must be given medications in strict accordance with the prescribed course and dosage, without skipping doses. Unauthorized replacement of one medicine with another, as well as termination of therapy prematurely, is not allowed. The dog owner should be prepared for the fact that in some cases treatment may take a month or more.
Treatment with special shampoos that contain antifungal components will help speed up the recovery of your four-legged friend and prevent the spread of infection. Such hair care products are gentle on the surface of the skin, but using them for a long time is not recommended. To avoid excessive dryness of the epidermis, follow the instructions.
How to prevent your dog from licking ointment and scratching
Foci of lichen cause severe itching in the pet. When he scratches the affected area, the infection spreads to adjacent healthy tissue, which significantly delays recovery. The same thing happens if the animal licks the applied ointment.
If the lesions are single, you can seal them with a plaster or bandage them, after applying a gauze swab with ointment to the affected area. It is possible to prevent scratching of large areas using a special collar. If the dog resists such a device and removes it, you should put a jumpsuit on it.
Can iodine be used to treat ringworm?
The use of iodine to treat ringworm in dogs depends on the pathogen identified. So, with the ringworm type of the disease, this drug has the most effective effect. It is not recommended to use iodine solution for pityriasis rosea. In other cases, the remedy does not lead to any pronounced result. It should be noted that some veterinarians are categorically against the use of iodine for lichen. Judging by the reviews, you should not try to cure an unusual “spot” on your own using iodine as a panacea - this can lead to disastrous consequences for the dog.
Useful tips
Ringworm is not a dangerous infection, but it is still worth visiting a veterinarian at least once. As a specialist, he will be able to accurately determine the type of disease and prescribe the most effective treatment. Sometimes it may be necessary to undergo tests to accurately determine the type of pathogen. This is especially necessary if the dog receives treatment but there is no result.
In any case, first we recommend visiting the Petstory service. This is a convenient and multifunctional portal on which:
- there is a complete database of veterinary clinics in the capital, where you can receive high-quality and professional assistance;
- there is a concierge chat, through which you can get advice from a veterinarian without leaving your home;
- there are a lot of useful articles that will allow you to broaden your horizons and learn many interesting facts about lichen and other infectious diseases.
By the way, through the Petstory portal you can find a clinic closer to home or with the lowest prices for services. There is also a service for online booking an appointment with a veterinarian at the veterinary hospital of your choice. Moreover, you choose the time yourself from the options offered on the site.
This way, you can plan your day, save a lot of time and money, and also help your beloved pet as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Nutrition for dogs during the treatment of lichen
Treatment of lichen in dogs must necessarily be accompanied by a change in diet. This is especially true for pink and weeping types of the disease, which are allergic in nature. A special diet is designed to minimize the toxicity and allergenicity of certain foods and substances. The following should be excluded from the diet:
- potato;
- chocolate;
- sweets;
- smoked meats;
- spices;
- any products containing dyes, flavors, preservatives and other additives.
In case of weeping lichen, you will need to remove meat and meat products from your pet’s menu for a while.
Popular questions and answers
We talked about the problems of diagnosing and treating lichen in dogs with veterinarian Lyudmila Bogdan.
Where can a dog get shingles?
Spores of dermatophyte fungi that cause lichen can be found in the soil, in the environment, and can be carried by other animals. If a dog comes into contact with a large number of relatives, the risk of infection increases. It is also higher in dogs that like to rummage in the ground. Dogs can become infected with lichen from rodents and objects belonging to an already sick dog.
How to prevent licking ointments when treating lichen?
The most reliable method is an Elizabethan collar, which must be placed around the dog’s neck. Yes, many dogs refuse to wear them and try to pick them off, but this requires the owner’s patience and constant monitoring: treatment of lichen is a long process and requires constant care for the animal.
What to feed a dog with shingles?
If the lichen is caused by an allergy, you need to work with your doctor to understand what it is - perhaps it is a reaction to the food, then you need to change it. Naturally, any provoking ingredients should be excluded from the diet: sweets, smoked foods, foods with spices. In case of ringworm or pityriasis versicolor, the food may not be changed, but it is worth adding vitamins to the diet that improve the condition of the skin and coat.
When should you contact a veterinarian if your dog has shingles?
As soon as you notice skin lesions on your dog, you need to immediately show it to a veterinarian - only he can make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. It is important to remember that people can also get ringworm. It happens especially often in children and the elderly, so don’t expect it to go away on its own, take your dog to the clinic. Otherwise, you will then have to treat lichen not only in the dog, but also in family members.
How to apply ointment correctly
The better prepared the affected area of a dog's skin for lichen, the greater the effect that can be achieved from the medicinal ointment, so every owner should know the algorithm of actions when treating an infectious source.
- Prepare the following items in advance: medical rubber gloves, blunt-tipped scissors, a metal container and matches, soap solution, antiseptic (furacilin, chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide), tweezers, gauze wipes, medicinal ointment.
- Before proceeding directly to the procedure, put on gloves.
- The affected area of skin is treated with an antiseptic solution.
- If there is hair along the periphery of the lesion, the hair is carefully cut at a distance of approximately 5 mm from the affected epidermis. The cut hair is immediately burned.
- If there are scabs, soak them in a soap solution until completely softened.
- The scabs are removed with tweezers, and the area is again treated with an antiseptic.
- Use a napkin to remove any remaining moisture.
- Apply ointment.
Upon completion of treatment of all affected areas, the clipped wool and napkins should be burned.
Can humans or pets become infected?
Every dog owner should know what type of lichen is transmitted to humans and other animals. Regarding ringworm, the answer is clear - this disease is highly contagious and very contagious. When diagnosing it, the animal must be isolated from other pets and household members (especially children).
Ringworm does not pose a danger to others, as it is eczema of allergic origin. Regular hygiene measures when caring for a sick pet are quite sufficient.
The possibility of transmission of infection with pityriasis rosea is currently questionable. The opinions of experts of different specializations contradict each other: some believe that this disease is contagious, others say the opposite. In general, it is generally accepted that if a person has a strong immune system, then pityriasis rosea is not dangerous for him. If the immune system fails (due to age, illness and other reasons), then it is best to stay away from the animal.
Pityriasis versicolor also does not pose a danger to humans and animals, since the fungus is also present on the surface of their bodies. There is a theoretical probability that household members will develop the disease if their immunity is greatly reduced, so if your apartment contains a dog with pityriasis versicolor, it is better to play it safe and isolate it from children, the elderly or weakened people.
Preventive measures
It is not difficult to avoid the spread of lichen between animals and the transmission of infection to people if you follow the rules of hygiene:
- after a walk, rinse the animal’s paws and thoroughly wipe the soles of shoes;
- do not allow your pet to communicate with street or indoor sick dogs;
- isolate the sick animal;
- disinfect all objects with which it came into contact;
- When caring for a sick dog, use gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after procedures;
- If you suspect lichen, immediately seek advice from a veterinarian (with your pet) or a dermatologist (if symptoms of the disease appear in family members).
Hygienic processing of items
To destroy fungus that has gotten on furniture and dog equipment, it is necessary to disinfect it. The dog's leash and comb are boiled for 20 minutes. Soft objects and carpets are treated with hot steam. Smooth surfaces are treated with Maxisan, a chlorine solution.
The room where the sick dog is kept is irradiated with a quartz lamp twice daily for 20 minutes.
Additionally, spray water and tea tree oil onto the surface of the upholstered furniture (per 100 ml of liquid, mix 20 drops of oil with 1 teaspoon of soda or salt).
Is there a vaccine against ringworm in dogs?
You can prevent the development of lichen in a dog by administering a special vaccine. The drugs Vakderm and Mentavak have good reviews. These are intramuscular injections that contain inactive fungi that cause lichen. Vaccines can be given after examining your four-legged friend, deworming, and examination by a veterinarian. Vaccines can also be used if the animal is already suffering from shingles. Self-administration of injections is not recommended, since the dosage and course require an individual approach.
Prevention of lichen in dogs
You can prevent the development of lichen in dogs by following a number of preventive measures:
- protect your pet from contact with unfamiliar and homeless animals;
- observe sanitary and hygienic standards, wash the dog in a timely manner with suitable products (including preventative ones);
- feed your pet correctly, avoiding the presence of possible allergens in the food;
- ensure that the animal’s diet is complete;
- get vaccinated in a timely manner;
- do not limit your pet on walks;
- avoid using extraneous bowls, collars and other household items;
- Treat identified diseases in a timely manner, avoiding a strong decrease in immunity.
Every year, microbes undergo mutations and become more and more resistant to the drugs used, so a single and 100% effective treatment regimen for lichen in dogs has not been developed. In addition, each animal reacts differently to the medicine and the causative agent of the disease, which also affects the speed and effectiveness of therapy.
However, shingles in dogs can be cured. To do this, you need to quickly respond to the symptoms, bring your pet to the clinic, follow the specialist’s recommendations and continue to follow preventive measures.
Symptoms and where they appear
To ensure that your pet’s treatment does not drag on for many months, you should contact a veterinarian at the first symptoms of the disease.
The first signs are usually subtle for both the owner and the dog. They can only be seen in areas with sparse short hair and thin skin (muzzle, ears, belly), in these places the skin turns red and becomes rougher.
Over time, the signs become more noticeable. In the affected areas, the hair breaks off and falls out. This may happen in one day or gradually. In some cases, outwardly it seems that the wool is in place, but if you pull it slightly, the whole clump will remain in your hands.
In the future, there are more and more hairless areas, they can be of different sizes and shapes. They occur on absolutely any part of the body.
In the deep form, skin lesions are more serious. Purulent inflammation develops, ulcers and crusts with dried exudate (pus) can form. When they are removed, an ulcerated, painful surface is exposed. Various manifestations of such symptoms are given the names shingles, weeping, etc.
In some cases, the fungus affects only the claws, this is called onychomycosis. The treatment is quite lengthy and in severe cases, amputation of the claw phalanx may be necessary.
Dogs, when infected with a fungus, necessarily show clinical signs, unlike cats (they are asymptomatic carriers of a fungal infection), with the exception of the Yorkshire Terrier breed.
