Red or demodectic mange is a skin condition affecting some dogs infested with demodex canis mites. These mites, according to Michigan State University, are commonly found in the hair follicles of dogs and cats, but most animals never show signs of infestation.
A small percentage of dogs, however, experiences an immune system reaction to demodectic mites. The tendency for a serious, or generalized, reaction seems to be hereditary. Treatment for red mange depends on how severe it is.
-
Symptoms of Red Mange
-
A less serious or localized case of red mange will show up as a few small patches on your dog's legs or face, while a generalized case will affect her entire body. Hair loss, scabs and red inflamed skin are common symptoms of red mange.
The worst aspect of red mange, however, is that your dog can develop secondary skin infections, skin ulcers and fever. Generalized red mange left untreated can be fatal.
Diagnosing Red Mange
-
Your vet will either take scrapings of your dog's skin or express the contents of her skin pustules for microscopic examination to determine if he has red mange.
Treating Localized Red Mange
-
Many dogs with light cases of red mange heal without treatment but benefit from the use of Goodwinol ointment to ease inflammation. Apply the ointment to his sores once daily, massaging it into his skin until it's completely absorbed.
Watch closely to make sure your dog's mange doesn't spread. Even dogs with localized red mange may develop skin infections that require treatment with antibiotics.
Mitaban Dip for Generalized Red Mange
-
The FDA has approved only one treatment, Mitaban or amitraz dip, for generalized red mange. Before using the dip, give your dog a whole body clip. Doing so allows the dip to penetrate her hair follicles and reach the mites. To reduce her chances of infection, give your dog a bath with medicated shampoo before each dip.
Dilute a single vial of Mitaban in water according to the manufacturer's instructions before using it on your dog.
Many dogs, especially small ones, are susceptible to side effects, including loss of appetite, vomiting, lowered body temperature and lethargy. Having your pet dipped at your vet's office where she can be watched closely for side effects might be a good idea.
If your dog tolerates Mitaban, keep dipping him weekly for six weeks, says Southwestern Oklahoma State University's Dr. Scott Long. Have your dog's skin scraped throughout his treatment. Dip him again two weeks after his skin scrapings are mite-free. Keep your dog dry between dips so the medication continues working at full strength.
Ivermectin for Generalized Red Mange
-
If your dog simply can't handle Mitaban dip, your vet may prescribe ivermectin, normally used to prevent heartworms. At high dosages, it has been effective against demodectic mites but isn't FDA-approved as a red mange treatment.
Many dog breeds, including collies and Australian shepherds, have a gene that prevents them from processing ivermectin. Your vet can test your dog for this gene before administering medication.
Mix the recommended dose of liquid ivermectin into your dog's food each day. Because it also acts as a heartworm medication, stop using any other heartworm treatments you're giving your dog while she's getting the ivermectin. Don't use ivermectin if she has active heartworms.
Considerations
-
Dogs susceptible to generalized red mange will pass the tendency to develop it on to their offspring. Spaying or neutering your affected pet limits the frequency of the disease.
-