Dealing with dog mange

August 1st, 2008

If your pet has been constantly scratching and hair is all over the place, then he may be suffering from a case of mange. There are two types of mange, and both are caused by mites. If you suspect your dog may have mange, the get to your veterinarian! Your veterinarian can help you identify the presence and the type of mites and get your pooch started on a treatment plan.

The first type of mange, demodectic or red mange, is normally found on puppies or adult dogs with lowered immune systems. Demodectic mange results from mites that are found naturally in the hair follicles. These mites are normally transmitted from a mother to her pup, which is completely normal. A dog with a strong immune system will be able to hold its own against the mites, and never experience skin problems because of them. A dog with a weakened or underdeveloped immune system, including a puppy, has a harder time keeping the number of mites down. The mites begin to multiply, eventually causing skin irritation. Signs of demodectic mange may include light scratching, hairless patches of skin, red patches with pimple like bumps, and scaling. Most puppies are able to overcome a case of demodectic mange within a few weeks; as their immune systems strengthen, the dog is able to overcome the mite irritation.

The second type of mange, sarcoptic mange, is a form of scabies. Unlike the mites that are passed down from mother to pup, these mites are contracted from another sufferer. Many animals can be infected, and humans are no exception. With sarcoptic mange, then mites burrow into the skin. This type of mange is much itchier than red mange, so your dog will spend a lot of time scratching. Hair loss occurs, but further signs may arise from your pooch’s intense scratching, such as cuts and scabbing. Skin damage and secondary infections are fairly common with sarcoptic mange, so an antibiotic may be in order. If you think your dog is suffering from sarcoptic mange, then he needs to be isolated from other animals as soon as possible to prevent spreading the mites. His bedding, toys, play area, and anything he comes in contact with must be thoroughly cleaned. Even after treatment begins, his belongings will still need to be disinfected regularly until the mites have been completely eradicated.

If you suspect your pooch has either type of mange, then you should take him to see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet can perform a scratch test, removing a layer of skin from the infected area. Once under a microscope, the vet can view what type of mites are causing the itch. Demodectic mites are cylindrical while sarcoptic mites are rounder. This test is not foolproof. Since your dog has probably spent a lot of time scratching the irritated areas, he may have scratched away the actual mites. Often, your vet can confirm the presence of mites just by watching your pooch. Even without a mite sample, your vet will probably start a mange treatment plan. If the treatments do not work, then other possible skin problems will be examined.

Treatment for mange will depend on the severity. Since a puppy can overcome demodectic mange, he may not be started on treatment for a few weeks. If the demodectic irritation is minor, a special shampoo may be prescribed to help sooth the skin. Sarcoptic mange and some cases of demodectic mange can be treated with rinses, dips, or medication. In addition to treating the mites, your dog may be prescribed an antihistamine or similar drug to help with the itchy, swollen skin. If there are secondary infections, then an antibiotic may also be necessary. Your veterinarian will decide which option is better for your dog.

Mange is a problem that affects many dogs. Whether you have a puppy, a sick pooch, or a dog that likes to roam the dog park, you may have to deal with treating mange. There are two types of mange; one is fairly natural, while the other is highly contagious. If you suspect your dog is suffering, then you need to see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet can perform tests, evaluate the situation, and get your pooch started on a treatment plan. Remember, he’s itching, so get him help!

Article provided by Pet-Super-Store.com a site featuring dog doors, dog crates, dog training collars and more.

Entry Filed under: Pet Health

8,400 Comments Add your own

Leave a Comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Trackback this post  |  Subscribe to the comments via RSS Feed

Calendar

August 2008
M T W T F S S
    Sep »
 123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
25262728293031

Most Recent Posts