MANGE SKIN DISEASE IN DOGS

Mange is a skin disease caused by mites that affects many animals. In dogs, it is usually caused by one of three microscopic mites: Cheyletiella, Demodex, or Sarcoptes. Each one causes a different type of mange, with each presenting similar yet varying degrees of symptoms. Because mange treatments vary by type and severity, it is essential to take your dog to a veterinarian if you suspect that he has mange. Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, take samples of the mange, prescribe medications, and administer treatments. Below are what to look out for in your dog if you suspect she has mange:

ITCHING

 

 The itching can even be so severe that it distracts the dog from necessary behaviour like eating, drinking, and resting. 

Severe cases of sarcoptic mange that result in secondary infections from bacteria or yeast can cause a white, crusty surface to form on the dog's irritated skin, though this does not occur in all cases. In addition, dogs with severe secondary infections will also often suffer weight loss, run a fever, and/or have enlarged lymph nodes.

HAIR LOSS

Check your dog for hair loss which usually comes in patches, this small patch will not appear inflamed or irritated and will not cause serious itching.

STAGE OF HAIR LOSS

If a case of localized demodectic mange does not go away on its own, it may eventually spread to the rest of the dog's body, resulting in generalised mange. The dog will develop numerous thin or bald patches over its body. Existing patches may grow to about 1 inch on the skin. The skin in the patches may become red, scaly, or crusty. This skin irritation can cause the dog to scratch at its skin, which can sometimes lead to more serious infections. These secondary infections will lead to similar symptoms as those in sarcoptic mange cases — fever, weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, etc.

LOOK OUT FOR SWOLLEN OR IRRITATED FEET

Some select cases of demodectic mange cause a condition called demodectic pododermatitis. This occurs when the mites that cause mange become deeply embedded in the dog's feet, where they are very difficult to remove. This condition most often presents itself in the form of swollen, irritated feet.

TREATING MANGE IN DOGS

If your dog has mange, you should keep him away from any other pets you have to prevent them from becoming infected as well. Make sure that your dog is safe and warm. Do not isolate your dog by tying him outside or keeping him in an unheated space in the winter. Select a room in your house to keep him while you are treating him for mange.

Provide food, water, bedding, and toys for your dog while he is in isolation. Make sure that you spend time with him, take him for walks, and play with him so that he is not frightened by the isolation.

In rare cases, humans may become infected with the mites that cause mange in dogs. Protect yourself by wearing gloves when you administer treatments to your dog.

VISIT THE VETERINARY DOCTOR AND ADMINISTER DRUGS ACCURATELY

Your dog’s treatment will depend on the type of mange he has and this can only be determined with certainty by a licensed veterinarian. Some dogs will need special baths, prescription medications, or even injections to treat their mange. Make sure that you follow the veterinarian’s instructions for treating your dog and contact your vet if you have any questions or concerns. Do not attempt to diagnose and treat your dog without the help of a veterinarian.

SANITIZE EVERYWHERE YOUR DOG HAS BEEN STAYING AND USING

In order to prevent mites from hiding out on your dog’s bedding or collar, you should remove these items and replace them. Change and wash your dog’s bedding daily to keep it free from mites. Use hot water, soap, and bleach to thoroughly cleanse your dog’s bedding.

HELP HER MANAGE THE STRESS

Mange can cause dogs to become stressed because of the itching, isolation, vet visits, medications, and other treatments that they receive to treat their mange. As your dog goes through his treatment, make sure to do things that will help to keep him calm.

For example, you can provide him with a treat after he has had a bath, make sure that you visit him often while he is in isolation, and do things that you normally do together like going for walks and playing in the backyard.

After the successful treatment of mange in your dog, to prevent reoccurrence, it's advisable you:

Treat other dogs she might have been in contact with when she had the mange.

Keep your dog away from other infected dogs.

Visit the veterinary doctor often for regular check-up.

Thank you for reading.

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