How to Treat Fungal Skin Diseases in Dogs?

When we happily stroke our dogs' soft fur and suddenly notice patches of hair loss, increased dandruff, and even red, scabbed areas on their skin, we are bound to be filled with worry and heartache. Fungal skin diseases in dogs are common and a real headache for owners. They not only cause physical discomfort to dogs but may also affect their mental health. So, how exactly should we treat fungal skin diseases in dogs? Today, let's delve into this issue together to help our dogs get rid of this disease as soon as possible.

Fungal skin diseases in dogs are mainly caused by fungi such as Microsporum canis and Microsporum gypseum. These fungi thrive in warm and humid environments. Therefore, when dogs live in a damp and poorly ventilated environment for a long time or come into contact with items contaminated by fungi, they are very likely to contract fungal skin diseases. In addition, the dog's own immunity is also a crucial factor. If a dog is malnourished, suffers from other diseases, or is on long - term use of immunosuppressive drugs, its immunity will decline, increasing the risk of fungal infection.

The symptoms of fungal skin diseases are quite obvious. At first, there may only be round or oval hair - loss patches on the dog's head, ears, limbs, and other parts. The skin in the hair - loss patches will be red and have dandruff, and the dog will scratch and lick constantly due to itching. As the disease progresses, the area of hair loss will gradually expand, and the skin may develop scabs, ulcers, and other symptoms, seriously affecting the dog's appearance and health. Moreover, the dog's itching sensation will become more intense, making them irritable, losing their appetite, and even affecting their sleep.

Once we notice symptoms of fungal skin diseases in our dogs, we must take them to the veterinarian in a timely manner. Veterinarians usually diagnose the condition through methods such as microscopic examination and fungal culture. After diagnosis, treatment becomes the key.

There are many ways to treat fungal skin diseases in dogs. First of all, there is drug treatment. Common topical medications include antifungal ointments and sprays. Under the guidance of a veterinarian, we can apply or spray the drugs on the affected areas of the dog, directly acting on the fungi to inhibit their growth and reproduction. It should be noted that when applying the drugs to the dog, we need to shave the hair in the affected area first so that the drugs can penetrate the skin better. At the same time, we should prevent the dog from licking the drugs to avoid poisoning. In addition to topical medications, in some cases, oral antifungal drugs are also needed. Oral medications can inhibit the growth of fungi from within the body. For dogs with more severe conditions, oral medications often have a better therapeutic effect. However, oral medications may have some side effects, so we must strictly control the dosage and duration of use according to the veterinarian's instructions.

Medicated baths are also an effective way to treat fungal skin diseases in dogs. Bathing the dog with medicated shampoo containing antifungal ingredients can not only clean the skin, remove dandruff and dirt but also directly kill the fungi on the skin. Generally, medicated baths should be carried out 1 - 2 times a week, and obvious therapeutic effects will be seen after a period of time. During the medicated bath, make sure that the medicated shampoo fully contacts the dog's skin, especially the affected areas, and control the soaking time according to the instructions.

In addition to drug treatment and medicated baths, improving the dog's immunity is also very important. Dogs with strong immunity can better resist fungal invasion and promote the recovery of the disease. We can supplement the dog with nutrition through a reasonable diet to enhance its immunity. Choose dog food rich in high - quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. At the same time, we can appropriately feed the dog some meat, vegetables, and fruits to ensure a balanced diet. In addition, allowing the dog to get some sunlight is also helpful for improving immunity. Ultraviolet rays in sunlight can kill some fungi and at the same time promote the synthesis of vitamin D in the dog's body, which is beneficial to calcium absorption and strengthening bone health.

During the treatment of fungal skin diseases in dogs, the cleaning and disinfection of the environment cannot be ignored. We should regularly clean the dog's bedding, toys, and other items and disinfect them with disinfectant to kill the fungi in the environment and prevent the dog from being reinfected. At the same time, keep the indoor environment well - ventilated and reduce humidity to create a dry and clean living environment for the dog.

The treatment of fungal skin diseases in dogs is a process that requires patience and care. It may take several weeks or even months. During this process, dogs may become depressed due to physical discomfort. As owners, we should give them more love and companionship. Interact with the dogs more, stroke them, and let them feel our care and support.

Dogs are our most loyal companions. When they are sick, it is our responsibility and obligation to help them overcome the disease. As long as we detect it in time, carry out scientific treatment, and provide careful care, we believe that our dogs will surely get rid of the trouble of fungal skin diseases as soon as possible, regain their healthy and smooth fur, and return to their former liveliness and happiness.