Mange, or canine scabies, is a horrible condition for any dog to have. It’s problematic for owners too because it’s tricky to treat. But don’t worry, it’s possible to get rid of it for good. However, don’t waste time; it’s easy to eradicate mange if caught quickly. It’s also important to know which type of mange you’re dealing with because there are two distinct variations. This is a nasty but treatable health problem.
Let’s examine the causes of mange, how to deal with it, and everything you need to know.
1. Skin Mites Cause Mange
Sarcoptic mites are the main cause of mange in dogs. Dogs often get it when they play with another infested host at daycare or in the park. It’s important to note that mange itself isn’t contagious. However, the issue is that close contact with a host can quickly cause a mite infestation. The sarcoptic mites burrow beneath the dog’s skin and lay eggs. Then their larvae repeat this cycle and often cause severe skin problems.
It’s extremely uncomfortable for the pooch because it triggers severe itching. All dogs can contract mange if we don’t take appropriate precautions, so always vaccinate your pet. Yet, there is another type known as demodectic mange. Mothers pass benign demodex mites to their pups where they usually remain dormant. However, if the dog has a low immune system, these mites can also cause mange.
2. Mange Has Visible and Obvious Symptoms
Mange has many visible symptoms. This terrible skin condition is quite traumatic for the owner, as well as painful and very uncomfortable for their dog.
The first sign is that the dog is constantly scratching itself and even tearing its hair. This may eventually progress to hair loss, redness, and rashes. In severe cases, the scabs may ooze yellow pus, and the skin may become crusty. The dog will suffer severe weight loss if they don’t receive treatment. This can be fatal in the most progressive cases.
Usually, mange has a clear impact on the dog’s skin. It will shed clumps of hair, and there may even be bloody patches. If you suspect mange, it’s crucial to see your veterinarian to deal with it as soon as possible. They’ll scrape the dog’s skin and analyze the sample under a microscope before diagnosing the condition.
3. Mange Is Treatable
If your dog is displaying signs of a potential parasite infestation, give it anti-tick and flea medication immediately. Hopefully, this will kill the mites without it progressing further. However, if there are more advanced signs of mange like hair loss and scabbing, it’s crucial to bring your dog to the vet. After their diagnosis, a medical professional will prescribe medications and advise the correct steps to take.
They may also shave around the affected patches. Usually, they’ll give the owner anti-bacterial cleaning lotions to prevent further infections from occurring. They may also provide soothing creams to ease the pooch’s discomfort. Vets are usually reluctant to provide antibiotics immediately but may do so if the mange doesn’t dissipate after a week. This usually takes the form of an oral tablet.
4. Mange Can Go Away by Itself
As noted, there are two major forms of mange.
Demodectic mange can go away by itself after a couple of months. It may occasionally flare up if the dog has a weak immune system. Regardless, it’s best to consult a vet because it can spread very quickly.
Sarcoptic mange is more serious and won’t fade without intervention. Remember, it’s extremely contagious, so deal with it quickly. The mites can also transfer to humans, although they don’t harm us. But there’s a risk we can pass them on.
This is even more important for owners of multiple dogs. If you have more than one dog, quarantine the sick animal and wash their bedding. Avoid contact with other dogs when you’re out for a walk so that they don’t contract the mites, too. Take care if you spot coyotes or foxes in your neighborhood. These canine species also spread mange so keep your dog indoors at night.
5. Dog Hair Will Grow Back
The good news is that a dog’s fur should grow back after suffering from mange. Most of the other symptoms will clear very quickly after medical treatment. More serious cases will take longer to grow back, especially if the dog has been tearing their hair out. This may damage the hair follicles, but they should self-repair over time.
Sometimes a patchy coat may look strange and attract negative attention. Consult a good dog groomer in the aftermath of mange because they may be able to help even it out. Don’t worry though because your canine friend won’t care either way! Improving your pet’s diet can help encourage hair growth. Give them cooked chicken meat with no bones for a protein boost. Also try massaging their skin with natural ingredients like flaxseed or coconut oil for a shinier, healthier coat.
6. Some Dogs Are More Vulnerable to Mange
Sarcoptic mange can infect any dog, but some are more likely to experience serious symptoms. Puppies and older dogs are more vulnerable because of their weaker immune systems. Furthermore, pooches with serious health conditions, like diabetes, are also at a greater risk. Always keep their vaccinations and parasite medication up to date. There’s a much lower chance of them contracting these nasty mites if you follow these basic steps.
Don’t forget that there are two types of canine scabies. Some dog breeds are more susceptible to demodectic mange. Pugs, Boxers, West Highland Terriers, and Shih Tzus fall into this category. Bully breeds, including French Bulldogs and Staffordshire Terriers, are also vulnerable. Preventative measures such as a healthy diet and consistent grooming should greatly reduce potential outbreaks.
