When we have pets we want the very best for them and never want to see them suffering in any way. When something happens that we have no answers for it seems to be even more upsetting for us and more painful for them (even though most of them never seem to complain).
Mange is a skin condition caused by parasites. This condition mostly affects dogs but can also affect wild animals and even humans. In humans it appears to be more like a rosacea appearance, which we seem to hear about a lot lately, if those commercials seem to stick in your head like they do mine.
There are two types of mites that seem to cause the canine mange. The demodicosis or red mange seems to be a mite that affects the hair follicles of the animal, which can affect the immune system, stresses and malnutrition. This type of mange may cause some minor itching, hair loss and irritations. Some more serious cases may get encrusted and appear more obtrusive. This type of mange is not generally contagious to humans or other dogs. Cats can also get this type of mange; it’s a little more serious and contagious for the felines.
I would speak to your vet before proceeding to your choice of treatment which generally would include shampooing with a good medicated shampoo for this type of condition. Actually, speaking with a staff at the major pet stores would certainly help you in the right direction. Another treatment may include antibiotics and parasitic rinses for the more severe cases. The cats may need a weekly or bi-weekly sulfur lime rinse to get this condition in control.
Another more common type of mange is the sarcoptic mange more normally known as scabies . . . and is very contagious. Besides dogs, humans, pigs, horses and others may also be affected by these mites. These mites seem to burrow into the skin causing intense itching and crusting which may become infected. Of course, this causes the poor animal to scratch intensely, creating more severe problems. Your vet may have to scratch the surface of the infected area to diagnose if it is indeed mange or scabies at which time he can give his recommendations for treatment.
The treatment for this mange is extremely important and must be followed as this is a seriously contagious type of mange. Your infected pet must be kept separate from your other pets, and all their things, bedding, toys, etc., must be cleaned with very hot water and bleach. Your dog will need to get treatment often with the parasitic rinses and whatever treatments your doctor may recommend.
There is also a third type of more common mange which is called a “walking dandruff”, highly contagious and mostly seen in puppies. It is irritating and itchy to the puppy, and can be treated quickly with regular parasitic dipping and again, cleaning all affected areas with bleach & water. In my opinion, while treating the affected pet, I would remove my pets from the premises long enough to bomb the house for any lingering pests.
Some of the pests out there are so irritating for our beloved pets, and we hate to see them suffer as such . . . and sometimes it is a problem that can infest the whole home and family–so try to stay ahead of the game. In the long run you will have a happy, healthier, and safer pet, family and home.
