The Two Types of Mange Found In Dogs
As if our patients here in Texas don’t have enough to worry about with all the fleas, ticks and varieties of allergens present in the state there is also the risk of the dog developing mange. There are two types of mange that owners need to be aware of and they are sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange.
Demodectic mange is caused by the Demodex mite. When too many of the Demodex mites gather on the dog’s skin they attack the hair follicles and create skin lesions and overburdening of the dog’s immune system. Some dogs will only have localized outbreaks on one or more parts of the body while other dogs will lose their entire coat. The visible symptoms of this type of attack are hair loss in a small or large area of the body combined with red skin at the hair loss site and a scaly type of skin with or without lesions.
Sarcoptic mange is also caused by mite but this time it is Sarcoptes scabiei. This type of mange is sometimes known as canine scabies and it is possible for humans to get this condition from their infected dogs. This condition can also be transferred very easily to other dogs so restricting the infected dog’s interaction with both people and animals is important.
The common symptoms include the same as with demodectic mange. Scratching is often very intense and hair loss can be extreme. Treating this type of mange includes using of a scabicide prescribed by the veterinarian, Revolution is the best treatment to kill the mite. There are usually secondary infections that require antibiotics. Steroids will help with the itching until the Revolution begins to clear the infection. This treatment needs to continue until there are no mites present on the dog.
Skin scrapings can be used to determine what type of mite is present that is leading to the scratching, lesions and hair loss. Treatment for both types of mange can be very effective but it is a lengthy process and has to be fully completed to prevent another occurrence.
Demodectic mange is not usually contagious to other dogs but without treatment, it can lead to infection which can spread. If you notice patches of hairloss on your dog or any of the symptoms above, you can call us or go online to schedule an appointment to see one of our trusted veterinarians right away.