Canine mange is caused by demodex or sarcoptic mites, small eight-legged insects that are microscopic and live in the hair follicles of a dog's fur. The mites are cigar-shaped and cause hair loss, itching, dermatitis and secondary skin infections. German Shepherds can be susceptible to mange, especially if they have contracted it as puppies. Older, injured or very young dogs can also be susceptible to mange due to a illness, poor nutrition or lowered immunity. Treatment should begin immediately to reduce the course of the disease and lower the chance of a relapse.
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Localized Outbreaks
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Identify the type of mite to determine the type of treatment. Most mite treatments work well with either type of mite infestation, but some are better than others. Read and follow label directions. Topical Goodwinol ointment works as a first line of treatment for localized outbreaks. If several spots break out, the vet may prescribe an antibiotic, like Ivermectin, for secondary skin infections. Medicated shampoos or dips used to be the primary treatment strategy for localized outbreaks, but dips are no longer as frequently prescribed. Medicated shampoos are used to clean the skin and open the hair follicles before applying topical treatments.
Generalized Outbreaks
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Large scale generalized mange outbreaks must be treated more aggressively. You may have to take the dog to a veterinary hospital if the case is severe. Treatment can last more than three months to clear a large scale infestation.
Prevention
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Mites are normally found living in a dog's skin, but if the dog has a strong immune system, the mite population is kept under control. If the immune system is compromised, however, an infection can break out and, with demodetic mange, can spread over the dog's body. German Shepherds with a genetically weak immune system are prone to such outbreaks of mange. Individual dogs that carry this genetic marker should not be bred to prevent the spread of the disorder among the breed.
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