Ringworm Vaccination for Dogs

The effectiveness of vaccinating dogs against lichen

The incidence rate among dogs is about 60%, and about 30% of cases are due to trichophyton (ringworm). According to statistics, terriers are more prone to the disease. Favorable conditions for the development of dermatomycosis are a number of factors, the main one of which is weakened immunity. A dog is given a shingles vaccine to protect it from the threat of infection.

If the vaccination is not done on time and the animal gets sick, you can inject the drug for medicinal purposes: it is only important to comply with the necessary conditions to avoid complications. Vaccines against lichen have proven themselves to be an effective means of combating fungal microflora, but it is better to prevent the disease in a timely manner.

In European countries, pets are not vaccinated against ringworm, but sick animals are treated with proven methods. This is due to insufficient evidence of the positive effects of vaccination. The causative agent is a genus of viral fungi, which means that the spore cells are constantly mutating. This causes the absence of a lasting effect in some cases.

Routes of infection

Fungi - the causative agents of ringworm are easily transmitted. The main route of infection is the dog’s contact with a sick animal, objects that are contaminated with spores of a pathogenic microorganism. Owners often bring lichen from the street on the soles of shoes or outerwear. If a pet comes into contact with it, it can get sick.

Trichophytosis and microsporia in dogs do not always develop after contact with infection. Dogs with good immunity often remain healthy. The disease affects puppies, recently ill animals, old ones, as well as dogs with wounds on the skin.

Miniature breeds and dogs with short hair are believed to be more prone to ringworm.

How vaccines work

Dogs are vaccinated against lichen only after a full examination, a series of tests and mandatory deworming. The injection is given into the femoral part at intervals of 2 weeks. To prevent an allergic reaction, antihistamines (Diphenhydramine, Tavegil) are administered.

Vaccines contain inactivated spores of pathological fungi (dermatophytes, trichophytons, microsporiums). One drug can be active against 8 different types of pathogens, which makes it universal in this regard. Vaccination of the disease forces the dog’s body to actively produce antibodies to all types of lichen pathogens. Consequently, the likelihood of disease is reduced significantly.

The effectiveness of the vaccine is achieved a month after the administration of the second dose of the selected drug. If the pet is already infected, two additional injections must be given after visible improvement. Only after this you can not worry about the dog’s health, and subsequently carefully carry out timely vaccinations.

What drugs are used

Domestic veterinarians use Vakderma, Microderma or Polivak TM injections to vaccinate dogs. Each of the drugs can be prescribed for both preventive and therapeutic purposes. Vaccines are produced in the form of a powder lyophilisate or solution. Active effect: no more than 1 year. The drugs differ in price and number of doses. For example:

• "Vakderm". Sold in the form of a 1 ml bottle with lyophilisate of dried fungal spores. Cost: 100 rubles.
• Microderm. The package contains 4 ampoules of inactivated spores. Cost: 360 rubles.
• "Polivak Tm". A 0.6 ml ampoule costs only 40 rubles.

All these vaccines have a similar principle of action and are analogues of each other. However, Vakderm has received the largest number of positive reviews and is used more often.

Vakderm: instructions for use

Dog owners choose this product due to its low side effects and high effectiveness against pathogenic fungi. The price of the drug varies from 95-110 rubles per ampoule. Vaccination is carried out according to the scheme given in the instructions. To avoid complications, the following rules should be strictly followed:

• carry out deworming 10 days before vaccination;
• lyophilisate of dried spores should be diluted only with saline solution;
• place the injection strictly in the hole, which can be felt in the outer part of the thigh;
• the syringe must be sterile;
• if the weight is less than 5 kg, administer only half of the drug;
• a double injection with an interval of 2 weeks is placed alternately in both thighs;
• The vaccinated animal needs rest, which means physical activity should be avoided for several days.

Self-indulgence regarding health can lead to the most dire consequences. To carry out vaccinations, you must contact only qualified specialists.

The first vaccination is allowed once the puppy reaches two months of age and has undergone a proper examination by a veterinarian. Vaccinations should be carried out annually, and then the pet will be reliably protected from trichophytosis and microsporia. The main advantage of this drug is the possibility of its use for medicinal purposes.

Ringworm in dogs: how to treat, signs, what it looks like | photo

Ringworm (dermatophytosis) is an infectious disease of the skin caused by the proliferation of a certain type of pathogenic fungus. Infection is possible through an infected environment and care items (mat, dishes, toys), as well as through contact with sick animals. Most often, damage occurs in individuals with weakened immune systems. This is especially true for old pets, puppies, and those who have recently suffered from an illness. The smaller the pet, the more severe the disease. This is explained by the fact that the fungus quickly affects large areas of skin in proportion to the area of ​​the animal’s entire body. Ringworm in dogs is a treatable disease. The main thing is to know how to treat it correctly and strictly follow the veterinarian’s recommendations.

Manifestations of deprivation

The first signs appear within a few days (sometimes weeks) from the moment of infection. They appear as a subtle, reddish rash on the skin that is itchy. The first stage of the disease can be determined by changes in the animal’s behavior: restlessness, constant scratching of one area of ​​the skin and loss of appetite in some cases.

Over time, the main symptoms of ringworm appear:

• bald spots on the body;
• excessive hair loss in areas of inflammation;
• peeling and crusting on the affected areas;
• itching of the skin, ranging from slight to very severe;

To begin treatment as soon as possible, you need to have an idea of ​​what ringworm in dogs looks like. Pink scaly spots of various shapes and sizes appear on the affected areas (head, ears, lower paws and tail). Regular scratching of the affected areas injures the inflamed skin and causes the appearance of pustules and scratches, and the possible development of a secondary infection. If surgical treatment is not started, the fungus spreads throughout the body (back, paws, abdomen).

Important: hair loss can be a sign of other diseases, so the correct diagnosis can only be made by a veterinarian after conducting diagnostic tests for the presence of fungus.

The fungus affects not only the top layer of the animal's skin, but also the hair follicles, so hair sometimes stops growing on the affected areas. It is due to this that the disease is called “ringworm” because it “cuts” the hair.

Precautionary measures

After detecting manifestations of lichen, the following precautions should be taken to ensure that the treatment is successful and the disease does not return:

• isolate the animal from children and pregnant women;
• It is advisable to allocate a room where the pet will spend time until complete recovery, and often clean it, collect and burn scales and fur that fall off the floor; you can disinfect the room with a quartz lamp;
• regularly clean other rooms in the house and wash the floors using disinfectants, treat all objects with which the dog has been in contact;
• carry out walks only on a leash, preferably in places far from walking other animals;
• do not allow contact with other dogs and do not allow others to pet an infected pet;
• Observe hygiene rules and wash hands more often for all family members where the sick animal lives.

How to treat

An integrated approach is the basis for successfully getting rid of ringworm in dogs. The photo shows what ringworm looks like in a dog.

When the first signs of damage appear, you should immediately contact a veterinarian in order to destroy the fungus and the consequences of its effects on the body as soon as possible. It is strictly not recommended to choose treatment methods on your own or on the advice of friends. The drugs used can give a temporary effect, after which the disease will progress. They can also distort the picture of the disease, making it difficult for a specialist to make a correct diagnosis.

Principles of treatment

Complex therapy in the treatment of ringworm in dogs consists of the following areas:

• local treatment of lesions;
• strengthening the immune system;
• maintenance therapy.

The duration of therapy depends on the severity of the disease and is usually 4-6 weeks. It is necessary to completely complete the course prescribed by the veterinarian and under no circumstances stop it immediately after the clinical picture improves. After completing the course, you should undergo a re-examination to confirm the absence of fungi in the body. A pet is considered healthy when two tests done a week apart show negative results.

How to treat ringworm in dogs

During the treatment process the following are used:

• Ointments (Miconazole, Thiabendazole, Clotrimazole, Yam Ointment). Treatment is carried out two to three times a day by applying a thin layer of the product to areas of the body that have been shaved of hair.
• Solutions of iodine, salicylic acid or clotrimazole are used for additional external treatment only on the recommendation of a doctor with strict adherence to dosages, since they can provoke necrosis of the surface layers of the skin, which will require additional treatment.

• Tablets (Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Griseofulvin) - prescribed when large areas of the body are affected or the fungus is resistant to external treatments. Hepatoprotective drugs are taken in combination with them to reduce the negative impact of the tablets on the liver.
• Shampoos (Keto plus) - used in case of a large number of bald spots according to the instructions attached to them. It is important to thoroughly rinse off the foam to prevent it from entering the stomach and mucous membranes and causing possible poisoning. If the fur is thick, it is better to shave it off, but then the animal needs to wear overalls during the walk to prevent hypothermia and weakened immunity.

The use of shampoo is not recommended if there are minor areas of baldness, since during bathing the spores will spread to healthy areas of the skin, causing damage.

• Immunostimulants and vitamins (Immunofan, Ribotan) - provide support for a weakened body, strengthening the immune system and accelerating the restoration of hair and skin.
• Antibiotics in the form of ointments, injections or tablets are used as prescribed by a veterinarian when a secondary infection occurs (staphylococcal or streptococcal), which causes inflammation and suppuration of wounds.

External processing rules

All therapeutic measures must be carried out using rubber gloves and clothing, which can subsequently be treated with disinfectants or completely thrown away.

Processing stages:

• cut the hair, protruding a couple of centimeters beyond the affected area;
• remove easily detachable crusts and scabs. You can first soften them with warm soapy water or hydrogen peroxide;
• treat the affected areas and nearby healthy skin with medications;
• ensure conditions so that the animal does not lick off medications. For this purpose, special collars or muzzles can be used.

Removed crusts and clipped wool must be burned, since pathogens can adapt to the environment and survive for up to 18 months.

Effectiveness of vaccination

The ringworm vaccine for dogs is a controversial method of getting rid of ringworm. Firstly, lichen is not a viral, but a fungal disease, so today a truly effective drug has not yet been developed. Secondly, pets do not tolerate vaccination well, and after it the fungus develops resistance to drugs, which complicates further treatment. Just a few years ago, antifungal vaccines were considered the best option for getting rid of lichen in Russia. But recent international studies confirm that the vaccine is not effective in treating or preventing the disease.

Prevention

The use of the following preventive measures can minimize the risk of infection of your pet:

• maintaining a proper diet and nutrition regimen;
• adding multivitamins and immunomodulatory drugs to the diet;
• regular examination of the skin;
• hygienic shower after walks;
• systematic antiparasitic treatment of things and the body of the animal;
• timely vaccinations and visits to the veterinarian.

All of the above measures will help increase the body’s resistance to pathogenic fungi and prevent the formation of favorable conditions for their reproduction. If an animal has low resistance to infection by fungal microorganisms, then the cause of this phenomenon should be sought. Possible causes may include immune problems or hidden illnesses.

Contraindications

Any vaccination is prohibited if the general state of health is impaired. This can cause complications, including death. Vaccinations are contraindicated in the following cases:

1. The animal is weakened by illness.
2. Hyperthermia.
3. The presence of symptoms of an acute infectious disease.
4. Suckling puppies.
5. Pregnant bitches.

Vaccines are not compatible with immunosuppressants such as antibiotics. It is not advisable to act without consulting a competent specialist and identifying possible diseases.

Purpose

There are many fungal pathogenic microorganisms - more than 30 species. Dogs are more often infected with a fungus of the Microsporum canis species. Ringworm is dangerous because it is transmitted to humans. A pet can become infected with it:

• on a walk;
• when in contact with a sick animal, including when using common care items.

The causative agents of lichen are very tenacious; they can remain active for up to 1.5 years. In addition, animals can transmit disease without being sick themselves. In this case, one can imagine the scale of the pathology if animals are not vaccinated.

Important! The Vakderm vaccine will help identify the disease if it is at the incubation stage: after the injection, small mycotic foci appear on the animal’s body, which begin to peel off a little later.

Animals with low immunity are primarily susceptible to microsporia. Therefore, the following are at risk:

• puppies;
• young dogs;
• elderly animals;
• pets weakened by illness.

In shelters and nurseries, the disease can reach epidemic proportions. To avoid it, animals need to be vaccinated.

The fungus loves dampness; it multiplies quickly in damp and unventilated areas; for the same reason, outbreaks of infection are mostly recorded in spring and autumn. At this time of year, air humidity is high, and ultraviolet radiation, which has a detrimental effect on fungal spores, is insufficient.

Complications and side effects

The dosage of the vaccine is calculated based on the age and weight of the individual animal. After the first administration, a deterioration in condition is considered a normal reaction: the dog looks lethargic and sleeps a lot. This temporary phenomenon does not require treatment. Also, at the site of vaccine administration, a local reaction develops in the form of a compaction, which completely resolves after 5-7 days. Other complications arise only when vaccination rules are violated or an allergic reaction occurs.

If the animal was in the incubation stage of dermatomycosis, the clinical picture begins to progress sharply. Lesions break out in places where pathogenic fungi are localized. The therapeutic dosage differs from the prophylactic dosage, and the number of injections increases up to 4 times.

Attention to the condition of the animal can be a good alternative to vaccination: at the slightest suspicion of demodicosis, immediate treatment should be started.

The first symptoms of microsporia and trichophytosis in dogs

There are several varieties of lichen - pink, colored (pityriasis versicolor), weeping and ringworm. At the very beginning of the disease they have similar symptoms. Therefore, it is important for owners to know what ringworm looks like in dogs and immediately seek help from a veterinarian.

The disease can be suspected at the initial stage by changes in the pet’s behavior. With ringworm, the dog becomes restless, often scratches the same place, and its appetite worsens.

The disease begins with the appearance of a small red rash on the body, and then small flaky areas under the hair. As the process progresses, other signs of ringworm appear:

• areas of hair loss appear;
• bald spots increase in size and take on a round shape;
• Without treatment, bald areas become more and more numerous.

Mostly lichen spots are localized on the paws, ears, and located near the tail. Without treatment, bald spots appear on the back and stomach.

Reviews

We recently vaccinated Gerda against lichen for the first time. The dog tolerated the vaccination well. No side effects were observed. We strictly followed the instructions of our veterinarian: we examined him with a Wood's lamp, dewormed him, and 10 days later we gave him an injection. The second dose was given two weeks later. Everything is fine, the dog is absolutely healthy.

We have had a sad experience with the drug Vakderm. We injected the puppy 5 days after deworming. The veterinarian explained that this could have caused death. After the second injection, little Jim was gone. First his health deteriorated, and a week later we lost him. But the vaccine helped the cat a lot, although he brought the infection into the house.

Source of the article: https://prosobak.net/vakcinaciya-ot-lishaya-sobakam/

Ringworm in a dog

Ringworm is a group of skin diseases characterized by an itchy rash.

In this article I will tell you about types of lichen that are equally dangerous for dogs and humans. You will learn what a sick pet and its owner look like, what diagnostic methods are used to identify the pathogen.

I will provide a list of effective medications and nutritional components for the treatment and prevention of the disease.

1. Causes and routes of infection
2. The first signs of lichen
3. Diagnostics
4. Treatment
5. External preparations
6. Ointments
7. Solutions and sprays
8. Shampoos
9. Medicines for internal use
10. How to prevent your dog from licking ointment and scratching
11. Nutrition during treatment
12. Vaccination against ringworm for dogs
13. Danger to humans

Ringworm in dogs: signs and treatment

Ringworm is a common name for a dermatological infection. This disease often occurs in dogs, affecting the skin, fur and claws. It progresses quickly and is transmitted to people, so owners of these animals need to know how to identify and treat ringworm in their dog.

Causes of infection

The causative agent of the infection is fungal microorganisms of the genus Trychophiton and Microsporum, therefore in medicine these types of disease are referred to as trichophytosis and microsporia. They are distinguished only in laboratory conditions, and the external signs and methods of treatment are similar.

Fungi reproduce by spores, which in a favorable environment remain viable for up to 18 months and easily tolerate temperature fluctuations. When the spores get on the dog’s skin and fur, they damage the epidermis and hair follicles. The fungus multiplies and the disease progresses.

Any dog ​​can become infected, regardless of breed and age, but the individual resistance of the animal to the pathogen is important. Risk factors include:

• weakened immune system;
• concomitant diseases;
• poor quality nutrition;
• stress;
• parasites: worms, fleas.

The source of infection most often becomes a sick animal, items to care for it - bowls, combs, bedding, toys. Often, spores end up in the soil, so they enter the house on the soles of shoes along with street dirt and dust.

Signs of ringworm in dogs

The incubation period of the disease lasts from 8 to 40 days. Before the first signs appear, the pet’s behavior may change: it becomes lethargic and refuses food. First, lesions appear on the head, behind the ears, at the base of the tail, and in the lower parts of the limbs. At the first stage, ringworm looks like round spots 2–3 cm in size with clear contours, on which:

• hair breaks off or hair falls out completely;
• skin peels;
• greasy scales appear;
• the color of the epidermis changes.

Over time, other symptoms appear: the affected areas become inflamed, blisters with liquid and ulcers appear, the skin crusts over and becomes lumpy. Ringworm is accompanied by itching, after scratching the lesions bleed, and an additional infection may develop in the future. If lichen appears on the claws, they change shape and peel off.

Diagnostics

The external manifestations of lichen are similar to other dermatological diseases, so before treating the disease, the dog is taken to the veterinarian. It is not recommended to treat the affected areas with medications yourself before visiting a doctor - this will complicate the diagnosis of the disease. First, the veterinarian examines the animal and determines the dog’s general health. It then uses three methods to identify the disease:

1. Microscopic examination. The pathogen is sometimes found in scrapings of diseased areas of skin and fur.
2. Diagnostics using a Wood's lamp. When exposed to rays, areas affected by the fungus glow in the dark with a bright green color, but only some types of pathogen give this effect.
3. Mushroom cultivation. Skin and fur scrapings are placed in a nutrient medium and its changes are monitored: over time, colonies of fungi are formed, which are clearly visible under a microscope.

The accuracy of the first two methods for identifying ringworm in dogs is 50–70%: if the pathogen is not found, this does not mean that the dog is not infected. The last method is the most accurate, but also the longest - it takes up to 3 weeks.

Medications

After the diagnosis is confirmed, the sick pet’s contact with children and other animals is limited and, if possible, placed in a separate room. Carry out wet cleaning and disinfect animal care items. Treatment of ringworm in dogs with drugs varies depending on the severity of the lesion: for this, external and oral medications and vaccination are used. In addition to special medications, if necessary, the dog is prescribed additional medications:

• multivitamins;
• means for protecting the liver - hepatoprotectors;
• immunomodulators;
• probiotics to normalize the gastrointestinal tract;
• antihistamines.

Local preparations

External remedies are prescribed at an early stage of the disease. These include ointments, sprays, gels, creams, shampoos, solutions containing antifungal components. Before using them, the hair around the affected area is cut off, and the affected areas are treated with warm water and an antiseptic solution. The crusts are carefully removed before application. Rub in the medicinal products, covering healthy areas of the skin by about 2 cm. If necessary, put on a protective collar for the pet to prevent it from licking off the medicine.

According to reviews from dog breeders, the following drugs are good for removing ringworm from dogs:

• Sanoderm cream;
• Clotrimazole ointment;
• Fucoricin solution;
• "Miconazole": spray, ointment, gel;
• "Thermikon": spray, solution, gel, ointment;
• "Fungin": drops, spray;
• ointment "YAM BK";
• Nizoral shampoo.

Oral medications

Antifungal antibiotics are prescribed if the infected lesions are large or topical treatments do not help. Before treating your pet with tablets, you should consult a doctor because they have side effects. The following medications are most often prescribed for dogs:

• "Intraconazole";
• "Griseofulvin";
• "Ketoconazole";
• "Fluconazole".

These tablets are produced for people, so the doctor prescribes the dosage and duration of use for dogs individually, depending on the age, weight and general condition of the animal.

Vaccination

Russian veterinarians use Vakderm-F, Microderm, Polivac TM vaccines; in other countries they are considered useless. The drugs are used both in the treatment of lichen and for prevention to speed up the course of the disease. The drugs are injected twice into the hind legs, observing a break of 2 weeks: first in one limb, then in the other. The dosage depends on the dog's weight. Sometimes a lump appears at the injection site, which resolves on its own over time. The effect appears within 30 days after the second injection.

The duration of treatment ranges from 2 weeks to 2 months: it depends on the severity of the disease and general health. When the dog recovers, its skin is restored and new hair begins to grow.

Home Remedies

Folk remedies are used when it is not possible to purchase antifungal drugs in pharmacies. Owners say that you can cure ringworm in a dog with iodine: the infected areas are treated 3 times a day. Another popular remedy is apple cider vinegar; sore areas are wiped 5 times a day. Some folk medicines do not remove the fungus, but help improve the condition of the epidermis: eliminate inflammation, itching, and dryness. These include:

• celandine juice;
• onion juice;
• tincture of calendula;
• Birch tar;
• lemon juice with vegetable oil;

The selected drugs are rubbed into the affected areas 3 – 4 times a day.

Prevention and disinfection

We must not forget that spores of the causative agent of ringworm remain in all places where a sick pet is, so it is important to regularly take measures to destroy them:

• the apartment is often vacuumed, garbage is burned;
• the floor and other surfaces in the house are treated with disinfectants;
• The pet's bedding is periodically washed in a disinfectant solution;
• disinfect animal care items with antifungal solutions;
• The dog is treated with protective gloves and special clothing, which you don’t mind throwing away later.

Contacts of a sick dog are limited. It is unacceptable to let your pet roam unattended. It is possible to avoid deprivation in dogs, but to do this you need to take preventive measures:

• regularly examine the coat and skin;
• do not let go outside unattended;
• wash paws after walks;
• periodically disinfect the dog’s places in the house;
• limit contact with unfamiliar animals.

Ringworm in dogs is a dangerous disease, but if you recognize it in time and choose the right medications, this infection can be easily treated.

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Causes and routes of infection

Opportunistic microorganisms - bacteria, as well as fungi, which are not dangerous for a healthy dog, constantly live on the dog’s skin and fur. Micromycetes and bacteria inhibit each other’s development and protect the body from other pathogens of infectious diseases.

When the immune defense is weakened, micromycetes attack the host and begin to feed on his skin and hair. At the same time, the virulence of microbes increases, they become dangerous for animals that look healthy. Mycotic lesions rarely occur when exposed to one type of fungus. During the disease process, the gate opens for the penetration of yeast microflora, which constantly lives on the skin or is carried by the wind.

For a fungal disease to occur, the following conditions are necessary:

1. Weakened immunity. Micromycetes can live on an animal for years without causing harm to it. Even infection of a dog with virulent microbes does not necessarily lead to disease. The triggers are unbalanced feeding and poor living conditions. However, even if all the requirements are met, the pet can get sick. In young animals, the immune system is imperfect; in older animals, it gradually degrades. Hormonal disorders associated with the sexual cycle, pregnancy, the use of contraceptives, and corticosteroids predispose to the development of the disease.
2. Favorable conditions for fungus. Micromycetes prefer dampness, warmth and lack of air. Mechanical damage to the skin or the action of ectoparasites make the damaged surface a breeding ground for conditionally pathogenic microflora. Fleas play a special role in short-haired pets. The bite sites itch, the dog scratches them. Spores fall on the wounds and germinate. Pruritus intensifies. New scratches create favorable conditions for feeding arthropods, bacteria, and microscopic fungi. When shedding is delayed in long-haired dogs, an anaerobic environment appears under the dead hairs; when temperature changes, moisture condenses, which is what micromycetes need. Hair eaters tend to secrete a sticky secretion that glues the hairs together. Tangles form - an ideal place for the development of insects and fungi.
3. Elimination of antagonistic microflora. After prolonged antibiotic therapy, the bacteria die. In the absence of competitors, fungi multiply with impunity.
4. Stress. A change in the environment, travel, or a large crowd of dogs can cause fear in the pet, against the background of which the immune system is weakened. The animal becomes susceptible to infectious diseases.

Infection occurs through contact with sick dogs, cats, infected bedding, household items, and walls of buildings and structures.

Main signs of the disease

How to identify ringworm in a dog ? In order not to miss the onset of the disease and to notice the first signs of lichen in their pet in time, owners need to be as careful as possible when examining the animal’s body, especially for long-haired pets. Remember that first of all, lichen lesions will appear on the dog’s face, paws and stomach. And if you notice any, even small, areas where there is a noticeable change in the coat - broken hairs, baldness of the coat, hair loss - this is a sign to show your pet to the specialists of the veterinary clinic, who will take a culture or check the hairs under a microscope. The sooner lichen is detected in a dog, the faster and easier its treatment will be. And if your beloved pet scratches its skin in the same place, its skin peels off or it has changed color, the animal’s behavior has changed: it has become apathetic, refuses to eat, or its food preferences have changed greatly, an elevated temperature - these are signs that that the dog has shingles.

As you already understand, every day animals encounter such a disease as lichen in the environment, but not everyone gets sick with it. Of course, the main role in this process is played by the state of cell-mediated immunity, which is involved in the protective mechanism against infectious diseases. Also, the likelihood of disease is very actively and directly affected by:

• state of local skin immunity, skin damage, constant hydration of the skin;
• the presence of other chronic diseases of the skin, digestive system, metabolic and hormonal disorders;
• cancer, chemotherapy, use of anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressants;
• viral and bacterial infections;
• age – puppies are more susceptible to fungal infections due to an imperfect immune response;
• pregnancy and lactation in females;
• improper feeding, hygienic care and maintenance of the animal;
• constant stress - remember, animals, like people, can endure one-time stress, but chronic stress will definitely turn into illness;
• The owner of a dog can also become a source of infection for his four-legged pet;
• Insects, most often mites, are also very often active spreaders of fungi that lead to this disease.

When an infection occurs, fungal spores first land on the dog’s skin and fur, then germinate and invade the hair follicles. The hair itself is destroyed, but its growth does not stop. At the site of the fungal infection, local inflammation of the skin develops, the hair becomes brittle, dry and loses its shine.

There are two forms of the disease – classic and latent. In the classic course of lichen, a superficial skin lesion appears, with limited areas of baldness with peeling and signs of inflammation, the hair in this area is sparse, short, and broken. With a high degree of infection, large areas of baldness appear. In the latent form of lichen, there are no clinical symptoms or they are nonspecific - in the form of small isolated baldness and skin lesions.

With a long course of the disease, inflammation spreads quite deeply, affecting the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. In this case, weeping areas of skin with crusts and damage to the hair follicles are formed, as well as the appearance of inflammatory foci in the subcutaneous tissue, after healing of which a scar remains on the skin. This may also be accompanied by damage to the fingers and claws with the development of dystrophic processes. A severe form of lichen is often complicated by a bacterial infection and can occur in combination with demodicosis, especially in young animals with poorly formed immunity.

The first signs of lichen

Most mycotic skin lesions are the result of the activity of Microsporum and Trichophyton fungi. The first pathological areas are microscopic hairless surfaces that you can notice on the nose, behind the ears, on the paws. The skin becomes gray or pink and peels off. The scales fall off. They are carried by the wind and become a source of infection for other animals and humans. A whitish mycelium of the fungus appears on the roots of the hair.

Micromycetes grow and irritate nerve endings. Cause itching. You may not see the pathological area. But if you notice that your pet is constantly scratching the same place, examine it. If there are no fleas, then the cause is a fungus. However, most often both factors are present.

Areas of alopecia quickly expand, the exposed skin thickens, becomes rough, and becomes covered with ugly bumps. The fur becomes thinner and breaks in the middle. The surface of the skin looks as if it has been cut. Hence the common name “ringworm”.

The pet scratches the itchy area with its claws, ichor is released, and crusts form. The dog tears off the scabs, the open wounds become contaminated with microflora, and suppuration develops.

The disease may begin with the appearance of pink spots. This is the result of viral multiplication, which occurs when immunity decreases. The reason for the weakening of protection is stress, poor nutrition, and unsanitary conditions. The disease can go away on its own, but if secondary microflora joins, a serious illness develops.

Another variety is malassezia. The fungus constantly lives on the dog, but becomes aggressive when the immune system is weakened. The onset of the disease can be heat and clumping of hair in long-haired animals. At first, you will not notice any visible changes on the skin; your pet will simply itch for a long time in the same places. Then inflammation occurs on the face in the form of pimples or in the ear.

Look at the photos showing skin lesions caused by pathogenic fungi:

Based on clinical signs, it is difficult to determine which particular type of micromycete plays the main role in pathogenesis. Laboratory tests are required to identify the pathogen.

Types of lichen in dogs and their symptoms

Ringworm is a skin disease caused by bacteria or viruses. There are several varieties of this disease.

Ringworm

Another name for this form is weeping eczema.

This type is non-contagious, looks like hot swellings, on which bubbles with a white sticky liquid appear as the disease progresses. Then they burst, and within 24 hours the hair falls out on the affected areas.

The mucus dries and forms crusts and scabs that fall off after a few days. The skin in these areas is bright red or bluish.

Ringworm

Pityriasis or multi-colored

The causative agent of pityriasis is a fungus of three forms (mycelial or Malassezia furfur, round or Pityrosporum orbiculare and oval or Pityrosporum ovale). It appears on the skin as small, clearly defined brownish spots.

A distinctive feature of this type of lichen is the pallor of the lesions.

The skin is not inflamed, but there may be slight flaking of the affected areas and slight itching. In case of pityriasis, only the uppermost layer of the epidermis is affected.

Pink

Another name for pityriasis rosea is ptyriasis.

Often develops after hypothermia or against the background of deterioration of the immune system. It is manifested by the appearance of one pink papule, the middle of which gradually turns yellow. This plaque is quite large in size - about 2-3 centimeters.

A few days after the pink spot appears, small similar oval-shaped marks appear on the skin.

A whitish coating and foci of inflammation may appear on the skin, from which a whitish and foul-smelling exudate is released.

Shearer

It is divided into two types: trichophytosis and microsporia. In the first case, the development of the disease is provoked by Trichophyton fungi.

Symptoms:

1. First, thick crusts appear on the scalp. In the superficial form, instead of crusts, small, limited spots are formed, and the fur in these areas is ruffled.
2. Gradually, the spots increase in size, then the affected skin begins to peel off, after which it becomes covered with crusts resembling asbestos.
3. After 5-8 weeks, the scabs fall off and new fur begins to grow underneath them.
4. With a deep form of trichophytosis, pus forms on the affected areas, which dries into thick white crusts. Often accompanied by a bacterial infection.

The deep form of lichen is more often diagnosed in winter and autumn, and the superficial form - in summer.

The causative agent of microsporia is the fungus Microsporum M. earns. In dogs, the disease most often appears in the winter, autumn and spring months.

More often, microsporia occurs in a subclinical or superficial form. In this case, small flaky crusts appear on the skin, nose, torso or paws. The wool in these areas becomes brittle and brittle.

Ringworm

Diagnostics

Before treatment for lichen, you need to make a correct diagnosis. In most cases, a clinical examination is sufficient. I advise you not to refuse the listed research methods offered at the clinic:

• microscopy of hairs, on which a veterinarian who has undergone special training looks for fungal spores;
• Transillumination with a Wood's lamp reveals micromycetes by a green glow;
• blood and urine tests allow you to assess the general condition of the pet;
• inoculation on a nutrient medium to identify the pathogen.

It is necessary to exclude pityriasis rosea, which causes a virus, and eczema, which has an allergic etiology.

Treatment

Treatment is carried out at home. The therapeutic strategy includes the following directions:

1. Complete feeding. If you have driven your dog to lichen, then you will not be able to create a balanced diet from natural products. Therefore, during treatment, use ready-made veterinary food for dogs with skin problems. After recovery, you can switch to other premium food or higher.
2. Care and maintenance. Change the bedding more often, do not keep the dog in damp conditions, comb the hair, do not allow tangles to form, regularly expel fleas, lice eaters and worms.
3. Drug treatment. You will receive detailed information about drugs for external and internal use from the following sections of the article.

External preparations

I have made a selection of popular external medications for the treatment of lichen. I warn you, all handling must be done with gloves. Use the following ointments, solutions, sprays, tablets, injections:

• Yam BK is a homogeneous gray-brown mass based on sulfur, zinc oxide, tar, and salicylic acid. Packaged in jars or tubes with a net weight of 10 to 1000 g. Apply the ointment in a thin layer 1-2 times a day for 7-10 days in a row. Rub over fur and scabs. The ointment softens the crusts. Cost 150 g - 154 rubles.
• Mikozon cream is a medical product. Available in 15 g tubes. Before use, sanitize the affected surface - cut off the hair, remove crusts. Lubricate the pathological plane twice a day until recovery. Price - 120 rub.
• Lecaderm is a drug based on the antimycotic Clotrimazole, the antibiotic Gentamicin, and the anti-inflammatory glucocorticosteroid Bentamethasone. Available in 15 g tubes. After preparing the pathological surface, treat the skin twice a day. If the dog's condition improves, reduce the frequency to 1 time per day. The course of treatment is from 1 to 2 weeks. Price - 424 rub. Analogues - Clotrimazole, Sanoderm.
• Nystatin is a medical ointment to combat fungal infections of the mucous membranes, interdigital spaces, and claws. It is necessary to prevent licking of the drug. We'll look at how to do this below. The ointment is applied 2-4 times a day until recovery. Price 74 rub.

Solutions and sprays

• Imaverol is a clear brown liquid. The active substance is the antimycotic Ethylconazole. Available in dark glass bottles. Treatment consists of four treatments with a three-day interval. Add to 1 liter of warm water in an amount of 20 ml/l. Give small pets a bath. Trim large ones and rub the solution against the grain. The drug does not irritate the mucous membranes and is non-toxic when licked. Price 100 ml - 2400 rub. Use up contents within 90 days. Analogues - Liverazole, Ethylconazole.
• Fungin Forte is produced in aerosol form. The active ingredient is Clotrimazole. Spray the spray over the affected areas twice a day. The course of treatment is 15 days. Do not use on puppies or lactating bitches. Price - 350 rub.
• Zoomikol is produced in 90 ml bottles. Active ingredients: thiabendazole, nitroxoline. Spray the spray over the affected surface. Move from the center to the edges, capturing 1.5-2 cm of clinically healthy skin. Repeat treatment every 3-5 days until recovery. The spray is suitable for treating cats, ornamental rodents and birds. Price 450 rub.
• Thermikon spray is a medical product that is successfully used to treat lichen in dogs. Free the pathological surface from crusts and dry with a gauze cloth. Treat the affected surface 1 or 2 times a day, depending on the severity of the disease. The course of treatment lasts from 1 to 2 weeks. Price 30 g - 400 rub.

Shampoos

• Nizoral shampoo is a medical product. Sold in pharmacies. The active ingredient is Ketoconazole. Used when a large area of ​​the body is affected. Rub the shampoo into the affected areas and leave for 5 minutes. Give your dog something to do during this time so that he doesn't try to jump out of the bathroom. Rinse off the contents and dry the dog with a towel. Make sure there are no drafts in the apartment until the pet is dry. Repeat treatments 5 days in a row. Price 60 ml - 680 rub.

Medicines for internal use

Oral preparations are used for lesions of large surfaces, or in cases where external agents are ineffective. Do not start treatment with these medications unless your veterinarian recommends them. The duration of the therapeutic course is at least 4 weeks. Drugs are discontinued if a negative culture result is obtained. If the animal looks healthy, and fungi are detected in the inoculated material, treatment must be continued.

All internal antimycotics have a wide range of side effects. For dermatophytoses, the following medications are prescribed:

• Griseofulvin is a medical drug. Approximate dosage – 1 tablet per 6 kg of weight, adjusted by a veterinarian. The antimycotic is toxic, so the animal’s condition is monitored by blood tests every 7-10 days. If biochemical parameters worsen, the drug is discontinued. Possible side effects are vomiting and diarrhea. Do not use griseofulvin yourself; trust a specialist. The price of a package of 20 tablets is 240 rubles.
• Itrazole (Itraconazole, Irunin, Orungal, Ketoconazole) is used as prescribed by a veterinarian. One capsule is dosed per adult dog weighing 10 kg. The first week the full dose is given. If improvement is observed, reduce the frequency of administration to 1 time every 2-7 days. I do not recommend giving the drug to puppy dogs. Be prepared for the following side effects: nausea, depression, constipation, vomiting, allergic reactions, toxic liver damage. Price - 380 rub.
• Fluconazole is a medical antimycotic, available in capsules. Daily dosage is from 10 to 20 mg/kg of dog’s weight. The frequency of administration is 1-2 times a day. The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor. The drug does not have a toxic effect on the liver. Price – 100 rub.

If you want to quickly cure your dog, consult your doctor about using the parenteral drug Dermikocid.
The active ingredients are the antimycotic griseofulvin, the glucocorticosteroid dexamethasone, and the anesthetic novocaine. The suspension is administered intramuscularly, once in the following doses:

• for puppies older than a month and small dogs - 0.2-0.5 ml;
• for pets of medium and large breeds - 1.5 and 2.0 cm3.

At the discretion of the veterinarian, the injection is repeated after 5 days.

In parallel with antifungal medications, use immunomodulators, hepatoprotectors, and general restoratives prescribed by your doctor.

How to prevent your dog from licking ointment and scratching

Applying the ointment to the affected area of ​​the skin is half the battle. The dog may lick off the medicine. At best, treatment efforts will be in vain; at worst, inflammation will develop. What to do in such situations? When the spots are small and isolated, cover them together with the ointment with a band-aid.

If the affected area is large, and the instructions for use indicate that it takes half an hour for the ointment to be absorbed, a muzzle or Elizabethan collar is put on the animal.

In some cases, ointments cause irritation and the itching intensifies. To prevent your dog from scratching the treated areas, wear overalls. Clothing will protect your pet from hypothermia while walking.

Nutrition during treatment

We have already said that poor nutrition is one of the reasons for the decrease in the body's resistance to infections. Therefore, during treatment of deprivation in a dog and after recovery, the pet must be kept on a nutritious diet.

I suggest choosing one of the following medicinal foods during treatment:

• Purina DRM (RUR 2,290/3 kg);
• Hills d/d (RUR 1,700/2 kg);
• Eukanuba Dermatosis (RUR 1,500/2.5 kg).

If it seems to you that the food is expensive, after recovery, switch to a more economical option. But not below premium class. (see Premium food rating)

During treatment, prohibit pampering your pet with confectionery, chocolates, bones, and delicacies from the table. After recovery, leave sweets, baked, fried, smoked foods prohibited, and when treating other delicacies, observe moderation. Although I do not recommend giving table scraps containing small bones.

But what should stubborn people do who believe that a dog must eat natural food? Learn how to plan a diet. Find an approximate recipe for medicinal food for dogs with skin diseases and try to create a food mixture for your pet based on the sample. Here are the components used by manufacturers of popular medicinal feeds:

Any set of natural products will require supplements of biologically active substances, which a veterinarian-canine specialist will help you choose.

Vaccination against ringworm for dogs

To prevent infection, numerous immunizing drugs against dermatophytoses are produced. I do not recommend using vaccines intended for farm animals in dogs. I will first review the biological products, and then express my own opinion on the advisability of their use.

1. Vakderm is a suspension from an inactivated culture of pathogens of dermatophytosis. Available in bottles ranging from 1 to 450 ml. Before vaccination, the dog is dewormed. A two-time vaccination with an interval of 1-2 weeks guarantees one-year immunity. If the vaccine is administered during the latent period of infection, an acute illness develops, which ends with recovery after 21-28 days. Therefore, when lichen does not respond to treatment, a provocative vaccine is given. After 2 weeks the injection is repeated. 7-10 days after the second vaccination, hair begins to grow on the affected areas, and the dog recovers. The price of 1 dose is 90 rubles.
2. Microderm is produced in dry or liquid forms in ampoules of 1 or 5 doses. For preventive purposes, puppies up to six months are given ½ dose, regardless of live weight. After 2 weeks, vaccination is repeated. Immunity is formed 4 weeks after the second injection. Animals older than six months are injected with 1 ml. If a vaccinated dog becomes ill, the injection is repeated after 2 weeks. The therapeutic dose is 2 times higher than the prophylactic dose. The cost of a package of 4 doses is 361 rubles.
3. Polivac TM is a vaccine against trichophytosis and microsporia. Available in 1 dose bottles (0.6 ml). For preventive purposes, puppies up to 10 months of age are administered the biological product twice with an interval of 10-14 days. For adult unvaccinated pets, an interval of 3-4 weeks is provided. A dog vaccinated during the incubation period becomes ill. Treatment consists of two or three injections with an interval of 10-14 days. Price per dose 50 rub.

Outside the Russian Federation, the described vaccines or their analogues are not used based on the following considerations:

1. Dermatophytoses develop against the background of decreased immunity. A dog that lives in proper living conditions, is adequately fed and is promptly vaccinated against other particularly dangerous infections will not get sick, even if it becomes infected. And the administration of a biological product to an infected dog inevitably leads to illness.
2. Veterinarians consider the use of vaccines for therapeutic purposes to be more dangerous to health than the use of external and internal antimycotics.

My opinion: the use of a vaccine against dermatophytosis for preventive purposes is justified in nurseries and shelters with unsatisfactory maintenance and an unbalanced diet. If you follow the rules for caring for and feeding your dogs, there is no need for vaccinations.

If your pet still gets sick, use external remedies. If it doesn’t help, use internal ones. I consider the use of vaccines for therapeutic purposes as an option of last resort.

How to treat lichen in dogs, spray, ointment, shampoo, tablets

Treatment of lichen in a dog is a long process, but very important due to the fact that the disease is extremely contagious both for other animals and for humans, especially for children. The disease is also unpleasant because even after treatment, spores of the causative fungus can persist in the external environment for a long time.

Where to begin

Before treating a dog's ringworm, the fur around the affected areas of skin is trimmed extensively (sometimes the entire dog), which removes most of the fungal spores - this is an important part of treatment. All sheared wool is carefully collected and disposed of (ideally, burned).

The owner must carry out all manipulations with the dog wearing disposable gloves and clothing specially designated for this purpose.

Before using local medications, bald areas are washed with a soapy solution, for which it is good to use soap containing povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine (10 ml of liquid soap diluted in 1 liter of water). The skin is carefully blotted with the prepared solution, removing the crusts.

Use of folk remedies

It is possible to treat lichen with folk remedies only at the initial stage of the disease, when there is a single number of lesions on the skin. More often than not, folk remedies are combined with treatment prescribed at a veterinary clinic.

• Garlic is often used to treat ringworm. Cut a clove of garlic in half and rub the affected area. The procedure is repeated 3-4 times a day until recovery.
• Wipe the dog's bald spots with apple cider vinegar, and then apply garlic juice, previously diluted 1:1 with camphor oil. Treatments are carried out 3-4 times a day.
• Garlic juice is mixed with a small amount of honey and the resulting mixture is used to treat skin spots 3-5 times a day.
• The head of garlic is peeled and passed through a garlic press. Add approximately the same amount of apple cider vinegar and leave to brew for 2 days. Treatment is carried out 3-5 times a day until the skin is completely cleansed.
• Pharmaceutical tar has a quick effect in the treatment of lichen. A piece of cotton wool is wound on a wooden stick, moistened in tar and generously lubricated on the areas of skin affected by lichen. The procedure is carried out 3 times a day. Usually on the 3-4th day, the crusts on the bald patches disappear. A 30 ml bottle in pharmacies costs about 35 rubles.
• You can also take medicinal baths with celandine. 300 g of herb is poured with cold water and brought to a boil. The solution is removed from the heat and left to infuse for an hour. The strained infusion is poured into a container of warm water where the dog will be bathed. Bathing should take no more than 10 minutes, every other day. Celandine herb is sold in pharmacies; one 50g box costs 60 rubles.

Treatment with drugs

Medicines for lichen, based on the principle of application, can be divided into the following groups:

• products for local treatment (ointments, sprays, shampoos, various solutions);
• systemic agents (tablets);
• vaccine preparations.

After an accurate diagnosis and receipt of prescriptions from a doctor, you can treat lichen in dogs at home.

Use of local remedies for treatment

When using products to directly treat affected areas, it is important to observe two points:

• ointments and creams are applied from the outer edge of the bald area to the center,
• To prevent your dog from licking off medications, you should wear a protective collar for your pet during treatment.

Such agents are most often used for local treatment.

Tablets for lichen

In severe cases, when the dog has a large number of areas affected by lichen, antifungal tablets are prescribed. The tablets are given along with food, the duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease. All such medications should not be used by pregnant females.

Vaccinations for dogs against lichen

Vaccinations against lichen, as a rule, are carried out only in a clinic under the supervision of a doctor. Vaccination is carried out twice with an interval of two weeks. It is permissible to treat dogs with this method for lichen in the initial stages of the disease and during the incubation period (if it is known for sure that the dog was in contact with another infected animal). The injection is given intramuscularly; a slight swelling may remain at the injection site for 2-3 days, which will go away on its own.

How to know if treatment is helping

On average, treatment for lichen in a dog can last up to 6 weeks (if the claws are affected, then up to a year). The prognosis is generally favorable.

• Scabs begin to separate on the affected areas
• New fur begins to grow
• Redness of the skin gradually disappears
• Itching is reduced

The effectiveness of treatment can only be accurately assessed using a Wood's lamp and taking scrapings and cultures from the skin of a sick dog. If in two tests taken at an interval of a month, the fungus that causes lichen is not found, then the dog is considered recovered.

How to wash your dog with medicated shampoo

As a rule, it is recommended to leave medicated shampoos for a few minutes after lathering. Therefore, in winter, you need to be careful when washing your dog so that it does not catch a cold.

During the cold season, a dog of any size will have to be washed at home in the bathroom. A rubber mat should be placed at the bottom of the bathtub to prevent your pet's paws from slipping, otherwise there is a chance that the dog could get injured trying to get out. The water should be at comfortable room temperature. First, the entire coat of the dog must be thoroughly moistened by massaging. It is necessary that the coat is wet right up to the skin, because if you simply water it from above from the shower, the undercoat may remain dry.

Then shampoo is applied evenly over the entire coat, rubbing and massaging. The dog is left in the bathroom for the time specified in the instructions. Then thoroughly rinse off all the shampoo. Afterwards, the dog is dried with a towel and left to dry in a warm room. Small dogs can be dried using a hair dryer on a low setting.

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