Dermatophytosis

                        ---------------

                           (ringworm)



                      General Information



Dermatophytosis is a fungal skin disease commonly called

ringworm.  The fungus lives on the skin surface in dead skin

cells.  As the fungus grows, it often spreads outward in a

circular pattern;  hence, the name ringworm.



Fungi can be found in soil and on animals and people.  Your pet

may acquire a fungal infection from any of these sources and may

pass the infection along to other animals or people.



Fungal infections first appear as one or more small areas of hair

loss that may be reddened or inflamed.  As infection progresses,

crusts form on the area of hair loss, the patches increase in

number and size, and large portions of skin may become involved.



Some normal-appearing animals may be carriers of the disease.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Local or total-body clipping may be necessary in long-haired

    animals.



2.  Cultures are often necessary to diagnose the disease and

    monitor the progress of treatment.



3.  Medications used in treatment include topical creams and

    lotions, oral medications, and dip solutions.  The type of

    medication used often depends on the severity of disease.



4.  Handle your pet as little as possible for ____ weeks.

    Exposure of other animals to your pet should also be avoided

    if possible.  Wash your hands after handling your pet.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * You cannot medicate your pet as directed.



    * Your pet develops new areas of infection.



    * Your pet develops other types of sores.



    * Your other pets become infected.