Should You Wash Everything If Your Dog Has Ringworm?
Ringworm in dogs is more than just a nuisance—it's a highly contagious fungal infection that can spread not only to other pets but also to humans. Despite its misleading name, ringworm is not caused by a worm, but by one of several fungi, most commonly Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
Why Cleaning Is Essential
Ringworm spores are extremely resilient. They can survive for up to 18 months in the environment, making indirect transmission a major concern. This longevity means that merely treating your dog medically isn’t enough—you also need to meticulously clean your home to prevent reinfection or spreading to others.
Things You Should Definitely Clean
- Bedding: Wash and disinfect all pet bedding frequently. Consider discarding old or heavily contaminated items.
- Carpets and Rugs: Vacuum thoroughly and regularly. Use steam cleaning if available to kill spores deep in fibers.
- Furniture: Use vacuum attachments to clean soft surfaces. Wipe hard surfaces with vet-approved disinfectants.
- Toys: Soak washable items in hot water and disinfectant. Discard what can’t be cleaned effectively.
- Bowls and Grooming Tools: Wash with hot water and antifungal solutions or consider replacements.
Recommended Cleaning Practices
Maintaining a strict cleaning regime helps break the cycle of reinfection. Here’s how to do it:
- Isolate Infected Pets: Keep dogs with ringworm in easy-to-clean areas, preferably with non-porous flooring and minimal furniture.
- Daily Cleaning: Vacuum and mop floors daily; dispose of vacuum bags or clean cannisters immediately after each use.
- Disinfection: Use disinfectants your veterinarian recommends. Bleach (1:10 dilution) can be effective on many surfaces.
- Laundry: Wash contaminated fabrics on high heat. Use antifungal detergents if needed.
Health Risks and Human Infection
Ringworm is zoonotic, meaning it can infect humans, especially children, the elderly, or people with compromised immune systems. If you or a family member develops red, itchy, circular skin patches after contact with your dog, seek medical advice immediately.
Veterinary Care and Treatment
While cleaning is vital, it complements—not replaces—proper veterinary treatment. Dogs typically require:
- Topical Treatment: Antifungal creams, ointments, or shampoos like miconazole or clotrimazole for mild cases.
- Oral Medications: It may include drugs like itraconazole or griseofulvin for more widespread infections.
- Long-Term Commitment: Treatment must continue for at least six weeks and not stop early, even if symptoms improve.
Preventing Future Outbreaks
- Quarantine new pets and monitor them for signs of ringworm before introducing them to others.
- Routine grooming and inspection help catch early signs of skin issues.
- Clean grooming tools, bowls, and bedding regularly.
- Educate family members on hygiene protocols and ensure hand-washing after pet interaction.
Conclusion
If your dog has ringworm, yes, you must wash and disinfect everything. It is a crucial part of stopping the spread and ensuring a full recovery for your pet and family. With diligent care, proper treatment, and environmental cleaning, ringworm is manageable and typically resolves without long-term effects.
