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My dog has ringworm symptoms. Should I bathe him before the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 13 lbs

I think my dog has ring worm. I cannot get him to the vet until tomorrow. Should I give him a bath in the mean time? Will this help at all? I have him quarantined from other pets and have been cleaning/disinfecting everything he might have touched.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 20th, 2017

I'm sorry to hear that Dexter may have ringworm! You are doing exactly the right thing by separating him away from your other pets, and cleaning anything that he has come into contact with. I wouldn't recommend bathing him tonight, as regular dog shampoo won't do anything to help and it may make the problem more difficult to diagnose when he sees the vet tomorrow. I would just keep him quarantined in a separate room until his appointment, and wash your hands thoroughly after petting or handling him.

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    So far, you've done everything correctly by putting Dexter in quarantine and cleaning everything he may have contacted. Do not bathe him until after his appointment tomorrow. Dexter's vet will likely need to perform a fungal culture and a bath could cause inaccurate results. If your vet also suspects ringworm, they will likely prescribe medicated shampoos and oral medications that are more likely to be effective against this fungal infection. I hope that all goes well!

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