Sarcoptic mange is caused when dogs are infected with sarcoptic mites---creatures that are more like spiders than insects. You won't be able to see the sarcoptic mites on your dog---they are microscopic. What you will see is your dog digging at his skin and eventually loosing significant amounts of hair, especially on his ears, elbows, chest and belly. The good news is that you have several treatment options available and treating sarcoptic mange is easier and more effective than it once was.
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Function
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When your dog becomes infected with sarcoptic mites, the mites burrow into your dog's skin and deposit their eggs there. The eggs hatch and the larva move to the surface of your dog's skin. There they mature and begin the reproduction cycle again. The goal of treatment is not only to kill the adult mites, but also to destroy the larvae and stop the reproduction cycle.
History
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At one time, dipping your dog in Amitraz or lime-sulfur formulas were the only options for effectively treating sarcoptic mange. While these treatments are still used on occasion, they require multiple applications, are time-consuming and do not resolve the condition as quickly as some newer options. With the introduction of Ivermectin, better options became available for treating sarcoptic mange.
Types
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While Ivermectin has quickly become the most common treatment for sarcoptic mange, the use of Ivermectin for this purpose is still considered off-label by the FDA. Selamectin, which is a derivative of Ivermectin, can often be given in two topical doses over a two-week period to clear sarcoptic mange. Moxidectin, also an Ivermectin derivative, is sometimes used off-label to treat sarcoptic mange.
Time Frame
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When treating sarcoptic mange with Ivermectin, treatment generally involves injections every week or every other week with the complete protocol including up to four doses. With dipping, treatment generally involves two to three complete saturations of the dog in the Amitraz or lime-sulfur formula at weekly intervals. The formula is allowed to dry on the dog's coat and then rinsed.
Prevention
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While sarcoptic mange is highly contagious among dogs, there are steps you can take to prevent your dog from being infected. Selamectin, when used monthly, can prevent sarcoptic mange. The medication is found in Revolution, which is a veterinary prescribed formula that also includes flea, tick, heartworm and ear mite prevention. Your dog is most likely to come into contact with sarcoptic mites in areas where large numbers of canines come together. It's also a good idea to keep your dog away from areas where foxes congregate as the sarcoptic mite can pass from fox to dog.
Warnings
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While Ivermectin and its derivatives have become common and effective treatments for sarcoptic mange, certain breeds of dogs have been found to have what can be a fatal sensitivity to the drug. These breeds include Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs and Australian Shepherds. In addition, many veterinarians recommend against using the flea preventative Comfortis while treating a dog with Ivermectin because of possible side effects. A common folk remedy for sarcoptic mange is to douse the dog in used motor oil. Not only is this ineffective, it can cause fatal illnesses in the pet.
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