Mange in dogs is caused by mites that burrow into the animal's skin. There are three different mites that cause mange: demodex canis, cheyletiella and sarcoptic mites. Mange is highly treatable if caught early, but in the meantime it causes hair loss, itching and skin irritation. Sometimes itching can become so intense that a dog's scratching can cause sores and pustules on its skin.
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Treatment
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If you suspect mange in your dog, take it to a veterinarian immediately. Treatment of mange can vary depending on what kind of mite is causing it and how advanced the disease is.
For more mild cases, your veterinarian may recommend an anti-mite bath or mite killers. Some mite killers, such as powders and ointment, are applied directly to the skin. More serious cases of mange may require further treatment. Lime-sulfur insecticide or amitraz are other treatments that involve bathing your dog or dipping the affected area into solution to kill the mites. These weekly or biweekly treatments can be unpleasant for your dog.
Selamectin and ivermectin are other treatments that help with mange and also help prevent heartworm. Revolution is the brand name for selamectin, and ivermectin is a stronger version not available over the counter. Ivermectin can cause serious side effects, so it should be used carefully and only under strict supervision by a veterinarian.
Secondary Infection
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Sometimes, as a result of the intense scratching your dog must do to relieve the itch of mange, the skin can become broken. As a result, infection can take advantage of exposed, raw skin and your dog's weakened immune system. This sort of secondary infection requires treatment by antibiotics. (Antibiotics are not useful against the mites themselves, as they are not bacteria but tiny insects.)
Antibiotics for mange secondary infections may include amoxycillin, enrofloxacin, sulfadimethoxine or cephalexin.
Prevention
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Mange is, of course, not preventable in all cases. But there are steps you can take as a pet owner to reduce the chances that your dog does not get mange. First, make sure your canine is eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet. Also, keep your dog away from stray dogs and do not leave it outside for long periods. Groom and bathe your dog on a regular basis to keep the skin clean and fur free of debris.
If your dog does get mange, keep it away from other pets and wash any bedding or other materials with which your dog may have come in contact.
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