Canine scabies---more commonly known as sarcoptic mange---leads to hair loss and itching, and may expose the dog to secondary viral and bacterial infections. Caused by the parasite Sarcoptes scabiei, humans as well as other dogs can catch the disease from an infected animal.
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Treatment
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Upon diagnosis, a veterinarian may suggest insecticidal dips, sprays and oral medications, as well as clipping the puppy's fur.
Time Frame
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With treatment, a dog with sarcoptic mange will partially recover within two to four weeks, but fully recovery can take up to a year. If hair was lost or clipped, re-growth can take six months or longer.
Signs of Recovery
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In a recovering puppy, the amount and frequency of itching will decrease and disappear, as will inflammation, red streaks and crust, while energy and appetite increase.
Recurrence
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Infected puppies may test positive only 20 percent of the time, according C. Griffin, W. Miller, D. Scott in "Muller & Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology," preventing solid statistics on recurrence of scabies. Dogs undergoing recovery for this infection may be more susceptible to reinfection, however.
Considerations
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Canine scabies is a zoonotic disease, and can spread from one species to another. Clean your dog's environment and closely monitor other pets in the house to avoid infection or reinfection.
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