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Puppy ringworm: Are these signs of a bad breeder or will he recover?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I cancelled getting my puppy due to ringworm diagnosed 2-3 weeks ago. The pups went back to the vet today and he would still not give them a health certificate. The breeder claims the vet is waiting for hair to regrow in spots. Now I feel sick over this and wonder if I made a mistake. The not knowing when/if he'll be better has been awful. She still lets pups run around the house, and there's a dirty blanket in his crate Are these bad signs or did I make a mistake and he will get cleared soon?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on June 14th, 2017

It sounds like the breeder you may be dealing with might be irresponsible. I would probably shy away from this person and look or another breeder that can produce vaccination records and health certificates. There are a lot of breeders out there whose sole purpose is to make money and have no concern for the health of the dogs or the betterment of the breed. Sometimes you have to sift through those folks before you find the right person. In regards to this specific puppy, the only way to know if ring worm is no longer contagious is with a negative culture. If they have not done this, and the owner is not having good practices at home, I would not assume that everything is OK. Hope this helps.

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    If the veterinarian will not sign a health certificate then that vet has cause to think the pup still has a contagious disease. Ringworm can be difficult to clear up and requires strict environmental management as well as treating affected animals. Here is more info on ringworm. http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=559 It is certainly treatable but it's an expense, hassle and potentially contagious to people or other animals in your home if you get this puppy while it is infected.

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