The term of mange can be used to describe a parasitic infestation of mites in the skin and hair. Two types of mites can cause this condition, although both kinds will cause the same symptoms. Itchy, crusty areas that the dog scratches at can be an indication that your dog has these mites. The dog may scratch and bite excessively in an attempt at relief, and may cause further issues by doing so.
The canine scabies mite is one common mite that can cause mange. It is also known as sarcoptes scabiei canis, or scabies. These mites live under the skin and can be passed to other pets and people. It can affect all dogs, but is more likely in animals that are not well cared for.
The other type found in dogs is caused by the demodex mite. It is normally present on the skin, and may not cause problems. For some dogs that may have a sensitivity or suppressed immune system, these mites can get out of control. If the dog’s immune system is unable to fight them off, the mites can overpopulate the skin.
Mange is a not always easy to diagnose. Commonly, a scraping of an affected skin area is taken and viewed under a microscope to see if mites are present. This can result in a false negative diagnosis. Another test called the Pedal Pinna reflex may work, especially if the scraping showed no indication. The ear areas are scratched, and if the dog responds by a pedaling action or scratching motion with the hind foot or feet, mites can be suspected.
A dog that has a suspected case of mange should be separated from other pets and people as soon as possible. Bedding and any places the dog frequents should be washed or treated with a spray to ensure there is no cross contamination or reinfestation.
There are several methods that can be used to get rid of the mites, and all can be effective. Rinses, skin drips and oral medications have all proven to be effective, however may not always work and might require re-treatment. Always complete all treatments, even if it seems that the mites are gone. There may be eggs present that will hatch and cause a reinfestation.
Any medical issues with your dog should always be brought to the attention of a veterinarian. Prescription treatments to remove mites are the most effective way of ridding your dog of these pests, and are only available with a prescription. Home remedies can be dangerous, and often have little or no effect.
There are several different types of mites than can cause the misery of mange in your pets. It is important to treat the animal with mange cream or mange spray in order to provide relief from burning and itching.
Other articles you might like -
What the Dog Saw by Malcolm Gladwell Reviewed I often tell people that I've probably finished 5 books in my life. I mean it as a joke, but it probably isn't too far from the truth. My completion percentage probably hovers around 10%... maybe less. However, when the author is Malcolm Gladwell it jumps up to 100%. That's...... -
Sprint Offering The Palm Pixi For Free With Contract Sprint is now offering the Palm Pixi 'free with a 2-year contract' through its online portal. Sprint retail stores may not be stocked with these free Pixi handsets and therefore the online option is the safest bet. The catch is that youâll have to agree to a two-year contract, which...... -
Happy Birthday Tinkerbell! On Saturday October 30, 2010 our little Tinkerbell turned 6 years old! She is such a mature middle aged woman now, but she will always be my baby. Last year I wrote an "Ode To Tinkerbell" and figured I said it all best then, so I might as well...... - Buy Antibiotics Online with Free Prescription
The weakening of the body may be caused by germs entering the body . Germs tend to draw nourishment from its host, and a person can get sick when the germs that enters the body. People can get germs by getting in contact with contaminated blood, infected water or food, creatures...... -
Rising Health Care Costs and Medical Billing Despite recent changes to the national health care system, health care costs are rising. Thousands of American’s will find that their costs for both preventative and continuous health care will continue to get higher. The bills are going to keep piling up and keep adding on one another. It can......