A happy dog is a mange-free dog.
Mange is a skin disease caused by several species of mites. Mites are in the arachnid family (same species as spiders) and can live on the skin of dogs. Two types of mites are responsible for the majority of mange cases in dogs: sarcoptic and demodectic mites. Sarcoptic mites burrow into the skin and secrete a poison that causes severe itching and infection. Hair falls out in large spots when infected with sarcoptic mites. Demodectic mites rarely cause symptoms in healthy dogs; however, they can multiply quickly and lead to serious illness and even death in dogs with weak immune systems. Treating mange depends on the type of mite and the severity of infestation.
Instructions
1. Take your dog to the vet for testing and diagnosis. Testing will determine whether your dog has mites, what type may be present and treat them.
2. Begin treatment by giving your dog prescription antiparasitic medication as well as medication for itching and inflammation. Medications may be given orally, topically or by injection, depending on which type of mange your dog has. Results are typically seen after a month of treatment.
3. Keep socks on your dog while undergoing treatment to keep it from scratching and causing skin infections.
4. Take your pet to the vet every two weeks for skin scrapes. This diagnostic test detects the presence of the microscopic mites that cause mange. After two consecutive scrapes are negative, you may discontinue medication.
5. Clean or replace your dog's bedding and collar to prevent recurrence, and treat all animals that may have come in contact with your dog.
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