We have probably all seen a dog afflicted with mange at some point in our lives. Mange is known as Demodicosis in dogs. The Demodex mite causes this itchy inflammatory disease and the identification of the particular mite can ascertain the harshness of the mange.
Mange can cause immune system problems, lesions and genetic disorders if left untreated. Both cats and dogs are known to contract this uncomfortable disease. Your dog’s side effects will be different depending on which mite your pet is infected with.
Demodectic mange comes in two forms. It can be localized to a particular area of the body or can be general and cover the dogs entire body. Making a determination as to which type your pet has will determine the treatment your vet will administer.
If you see small patches of lesions around your dog’s legs, face or trunk, then he probably has the milder form, which is localized mange. Generalized mange will appear over the whole body in the form of redness on the skin accompanied by the patches of lesions. Doctors will say that there is no known cause for mange however; some feel that immune system problems can prompt this disease in your dog.
It has been determined that mange is caused by three identifiable mites. Transmission is unknown with two of the three. However, Demodex canis is a type of mite that gets into the hair follicle and skins and is likely to be transferred during nursing to the newborn from the mother.
Testing is done either with a urine sample if you are able to get one or by scraping a piece of the dogs skin. The vet will want to rule out that possibility of your dog having an infected hair follicle. They can also determine the mite by plucking a few hairs.
Localized mange can be cured easily by itself over a period of time. The generalized mange can be more difficult to cure. Lime-sulphur dips and constant medication can relieve some of the symptoms. There are some cases that are more severe and you will need to weigh your options with the vet for the best solution for the dog.
Skin scrapings are necessary to continue testing the dog during its treatment to determine that the mites have been eliminated. If your dog is diagnosed with mange, it is important that you are diligent with the prescribed treatment. This will enable you to keep the spread of the disease under control.
In order to help prevent this disease, you can be sure to maintain the good health of your dog or cat. Regular grooming of your pet can help ward off this nasty disease. All veterinarians will suggest that you not breed your pet if it has chronic mange.
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