Canine Ringworm: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment | Probiotic Spray | MicroMed

DESCRIPTION: Classic fungal infection, not caused by a parasite or a worm as some believe, and often with a circular shape, hence ‘ring’ shaped patch.  These can occur anywhere on the body however more prevalent on the head, paws, ears and forelegs.  The area will appear inflamed, scaly and hair loss will often occur.  You need to be aware that as a fungal condition, mild ringworm infections, may only cause hair loss, dryness and itching, without redness or scabs.

TREATMENT: This is a contagious condition and should therefore be contained as quickly as possible, and your dog isolated.  Caution should be taken as this condition can be transferred between dogs and humans.  Veterinary treatment involves using anti-fungals, either as creams or orally.

MicroMed Note: Ringworm is a sign of a system out of balance.   If we determine where this imbalance originates it is likely to have begun in the gut, through a process of microbial dysbiosis, leading to inflammation, low immunity and possibly this in turn leading to a Leaky Gut, also known as Intestinal Permeability.  This is where the gut becomes too permeable and substances that should not gain access to the bloodstream do so and this in turn sets up an accumulating immune reaction.  It is little wonder that ringworm is an issue when there are so many animals with such compromised gastro-intestinal tracts.  Re-establishment of microbial balance is necessary, to help reduce inflammation, strengthen immunity and restore equilibrium.  Studies show that microbial balance can positively affect whole body health - or disease - so it may be wise to commence MicroMed's Everyday Care and Acute Care probiotics to re-establish the healthy microbes and out-compete the detrimental microbes whilst helping prevent pathogens from taking hold. In Chinese medicine, it is believed this is a ‘stagnation’ issue and therefore a good amount of exercise is recommended every day.