Mange occurs when small mites burrow under the skin of a dog, causing itchiness, redness and bald patches. There are two types of mange that affect dogs.
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Demodectic Mange
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Demodectic mange, usually called demodex or red mange, occurs in puppies 3 to 6 months old. Puppies with demodox are generally easy to cure, but demodex in adult dogs might be a sign of underlying problems such as a hereditary or immune system disorder according to MangeCure.com.
Sarcoptic Mange
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Sarcoptic mange is extremely contagious and difficult to diagnose. Skin testing for sarcoptic mange usually results in a false negative, according to Wes Borgman, a veterinarian with the Seminole Animal Hospital in Sanford, Florida. Usually, veterinarians will treat a skin condition as sarcoptic mange even if the test is false. Sarcoptic mange can also be transferred to humans in the form of scabies.
Symptoms
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Typical symptoms of mange include redness, itchiness, scaly or dry skin and bald spots. There might be brown marks or "dirt" around the nose and ears of the animal. Weight loss might occur as well.
Treatments
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The vet might prescribe a medicinal shampoo or oral medication for the dog. Washing the pet with a solution of hydrogen peroxide, borax and warm water might help, along with treating areas of rash with local honey, lemon steeped in hot water or soapy water.
Prevention
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Routine bathing and brushing can help keep mange mites at bay. Avoiding kennels or grooming centers can reduce the risk of your pet catching the contagious sarcoptic mange.
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