Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Crunchy Muffins

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• What is ringworm (dermatophytosis)? Ringworm is the common name for the skin infection caused by a group of fungi; it is not caused by a worm at all. Ringworm is closely related to athlete’s foot in people, and it is contagious to us; the young, old, and immunocompromised are more likely to get it. Ringworm is also very contagious to other animals including dogs, cats, rats, etc.  Most often it will cause a circular area of fur loss that is red and may be slightly raised. Ringworm can also have other characteristics but these circular, hairless lesions are the most common symptom. 

 

• Am I going to get ringworm from my newly adopted pet? It is possible for you and anybody in your living space to get ringworm from your new pet. Washing your hands after handling the pet and keeping them isolated to a bathroom, or room with tile flooring, for the length of their treatment can help reduce the chances of transmission, but some people may be at greater risk than others. This puts young animals and children, elderly people and pets, and highly stressed people and animals at high risk. 

 

• What if I get ringworm? We recommend that you see a physician. While ringworm is a curable, self-limiting ailment in healthy adults, we always recommend getting professional advice to resolve it in a timely manner. 

 

• What about my other animals? In order to keep your other pets from getting ringworm we recommend that you keep your adopted pet isolated in a room that is easy to clean, such as a bathroom. Washing your hands and changing your clothes in between your ringworm pet and other animals can reduce the chance of spreading the fungus as well. Remember, your shoes can also be a carrier of the spores. 

 

• What treatment will my new pet need? Your pet will continue to take a once daily oral medication in conjunction with lime sulfur dipping. Instructions for dipping are included and we are always available for advice and support. We will supply you with everything you will need to continue treatment for the remainder of the current cycle. If the ringworm has not resolved after your meds run out, then we recommend taking your newly adopted pet to your personal vet for further recommendations and treatment. 

 

• What about my home? If you keep your pet in a bathroom or other confined, tiled area it is very easy to clean the space. Ringworm is killed using a bleach dilution of 10 parts water to 1 part bleach. Let the solution sit for approximately 10 minutes for maximum efficacy. You can also use products with accelerated hydrogen peroxide and allow them to sit for 10 minutes of contact time. We can give you suggestions on request. The area the pet is kept in, and all of their bedding, should be washed using bleach at least once weekly.