My dog has a persistent skin issue. Is it ringworm and is it serious?

Question

My max has had this for a couple of months now, I am putting an antibacterial cream but I sometimes forget to apply it, the vet had seen a picture of it and he said to put an antibacterial shampoo but I don’t shower my shih Tzu often so I don’t think that’s working. What could it be? I don’t think it’s a ring worm because I’ve touched it and nothing has happened? Can a ringworm kill a dog? Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 5 months old | 13 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If applying antibiotic cream and bathing in an antibacterial shampoo has not helped then I would take Max to the vet so they can examine it in person. I would shave the fur away to get a better look at the skin. Also shaving the fur away allows topical creams to stick and penetrate better. If Max can reach the area to lick you should use an E-collar or T-shirt to prevent him from making it worse and not allowing it to heal. I agree with previous possible causes of either skin infection/hot spot, trauma/bruise or ring worm. Dogs do not usually die from ring worm unless they lose so much fur, are scratching themselves miserably and stop eating. That is very advanced and shouldn't occur with Veterinary care. If you want to give it more time at home, then shave the fur away, use an E-collar, clean it twice daily with mild soap and water and apply a triple antibiotic cream. If there is no improvement in 7-10 days with consistent treatment it is time to see a Vet. I hope this helps and I wish you and Max the best!

My dog has a persistent skin issue. Is it ringworm and is it serious?

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