Mites are usually present on dogs but mange does not occur until the mites begin to infest the skin. Mange is highly infectious and sometimes severe. If one thinks their dog has mange they should seek immediate attention. Three different types of mites, Sarcoptic, Demodex, and Cheyletiella, infect dogs differently and vary in severity.
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Sarcoptic Mange Mites
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Sarcoptic mange is a form of canine scabies and can occur in any breed or age of dogs. It is highly contagious and easily transferred since it is easily blown from animal to animal. The Sarcoptic mites are able to burrow into the skin using the hooks and spines covering its body and live a reproduction and life cycle, quickly spreading infection.
Demodex Mange Mites
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Mothers expose their puppies to Demodex mites strictly through physical contact, usually during breast feeding. The mites are able to live off their host so the living space does not become infected. Because Demodex mites are the most common form of mites and are able to complete the life cycle on their host, they are able to survive longer periods of time. Demodex mites are always present and not referred to as mange until there is a large population of mites. The development of a large mite population usually signifies a suppressed immune system since most healthy puppies are able to control mites.
Cheyletiella Mange Mites
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Cheyletiella mange is the mildest form of mange that a dog can contract. Cheyletiella is also referred to as "walking dandruff," due to the flakes they produce along the back, neck, and head of the dog while moving around under the skin. Unlike the previous forms of mites, the Cheyletiella mites are visible if closely inspected and usually do not live as long on puppies or dogs.
Symptoms
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The common symptoms of mange are usually inflammation and flaking of the skin and the subsequent scratching that usually irritates the skin further. Hair loss progresses when large amounts of demodectic mites are living in hair follicles or because of scratching. With prolonged exposure to mange animals can develop scabbed, cracking skin, that seeps fluid, loss of appetite or even fever. If left untreated, the dog can become susceptible to other infections by means of open sores and may eventually die or face be euthanized.
Treatment
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Many times mange will correct itself in puppies once they are old enough and their immune system is able to control the mites. In the case of Cheyletiella, most flea insecticides can solve the problem and the environment should also be treated since they can live off their host. In more severe cases immediate veterinary attention is imperative. A topical prescription in combination with a benzoyl peroxide shampoo will eventually clear the problem. It is important to feed dogs a balanced diet and to continue with regular check-ups so they are healthy and remain immune to further mite infestations.
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