Alternative to Demodex for Mange

All dogs contract demodex mites from their mothers after birth, and most do not fall victim to the uncomfortable skin condition called demodectic mange. Sarcoptic mange is an alternative form of mange and is not caused by demodex mites.

  1. Sarcoptic Mange

    • According to Dog Time, sarcoptic mange is different from demodectic mange because it is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites. These mites burrow into the skin of a dog in areas where there is the least amount of skin. The mites often prefer the ears, belly and elbows of a dog. After burrowing into the skin of a dog, the Sarcotes scabiei mites lay eggs that cause a dog to have an allergic reaction. Sarcoptic mange often is referred to as canine scabies.

    Symptoms

    • Sarcoptic mange makes a dog very uncomfortable. A dog with this type of mange will experience intense, uncontrollable itching. The skin of the dog will appear scaly. The skin also will be red because of the allergic reaction and the dog's excessive scratching. The outer edges of the ears of a dog with sarcoptic mange may become crusty.

    Treatment

    • Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious and a dog with this type of mange must be isolated from other animals for up to a month after the start of treatment. The dog's bedding, collar and toys should be washed or discarded. Medical treatment for sarcoptic mange usually consists of shots of a medication called ivermectin. If there is more than one dog in a home where a canine has been diagnosed with sarcoptic mange, all dogs in the household must be treated even if they are symptom-free.