Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be found on nearly any four-legged pet.  It is considered zoonotic (contagious) in that people get ringworm from their pets and the environment, but pets can also get ringworm from people and the environment.  The fungus lives in the dead cell layer of the hair, nails and skin.  The most common symptoms are hairloss, crustiness, itchiness and a ring of red and inflamed skin.  Some pet may be carriers of ringworm and have no symptoms.  Ringworm is definitively diagnosed by a fungal culture and can be tentatively diagnosed by a special "glow" under a black light.  Treatment may be prolonged and frustrating.  There are oral and topical medications that may be prescribed and occasionally a pet must be shaved to eliminate excess hair.