by Nanette Piotrowski

Created on: April 03, 2010   Last Updated: May 05, 2011

Mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites that invade a dog's body. Afflicted animals begin scratching and this creates sores and bald patches.

Mites normally attack in large numbers and cannot be seen by human eyes as in the case of Sarcoptic and Demodectic mange. Mites can infest at any time of the year, but are most prevalent in summer when the mites are more active.

There are three types of mange: Sarcoptic (the most deadly), Demodectic and Cheyletiella. The discussion in this article will focus on Sarcoptic Mange.

Sarcoptic mange can quickly overtake a dogs skin and can cause severe hair loss in a very short space of time (sometimes within one week), and if left untreated, the dog will then develope a high fever (104 degrees) and can die within 48 hours.

This type of mange is the only disease that can pass from humans (where it is called scabies) to dogs and vice versa. For humans, the mites will eventually die off (generally 2 weeks), but the use of Benadryl and a topical ointment (used for poison ivy) will help heal the sores and control the itching.

It is vital that a treatment regimen be started immediately and the dog must be quarantined, since the mites will spread to other dogs. Treatments can range from a shot (Duradectin), to dipping in medicated shampoos (Ivomec), oral antibiotics and home-made salves. In the case of Sarcoptic Mange, it is essential to do all of the above because this type of mange is deadly.

Something you can do after the vet has given the shot and dipped your dog is every day scrub the areas of patchy skin with Lavendar and Vanilla Shampoo (Dollar General Store) using a washcloth, making sure that any scabs are removed. Rinse the areas well, being very careful if the areas are located anywhere on the head or ears and then apply Calamine Lotion to the affected areas.

Continue this procedure every day until scabbing and red pimpling is gone and then apply weekly until the hair begins to grow back.

I belong to a dog rescue organization and these techniques do work. Contact your vet immediately if you see your dog scratching and you have found no fleas. Prompt attention to any variety of mange will ensure the health of your dog and of your family.

Sources:

http://www.mangeindogs.com

http://www.,maneindogs.net

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