Mange alert: Learn how to identify, treat, and save your dog

Like people, dogs can suffer from skin conditions that make them visibly uncomfortable. While most dogs have enough fur to protect their sensitive skin from the elements and other foreign bodies, unfortunately, this protection is not 100% effective.

If you notice that your dog is relentlessly itching, scratching, and even losing fur, there are a number of potential causes for their discomfort, but a condition you want to be sure to watch out for is mange.

Here, we discuss what mange is, its symptoms, how to combat it, and preventative tips.

What is mange?

As described by the American Kennel Club, mange is a skin disorder caused by mites that irritate the skin. It can affect dogs and humans. Unfortunately, two types, sarcoptic and demodectic, can also be found in dogs.

Sarcoptic mange

Also known as scabies, sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious skin disease caused by the eight-legged sarcoptic mite.

Although it is not known to be as severe in non-canine hosts, it can easily be transmitted from dog to dog and even dog to human.

With sarcoptic mange, the female mites lay eggs in the host’s skin; the eggs hatch in about three weeks and begin to burrow into the flesh. If a dog has this kind of mange, it is highly suggested that they are quarantined until treated.

Demodectic mange

On the other hand, demodectic mange is not typically as serious as sarcoptic mange (scabies) but is still not to be taken lightly. In demodectic mange, the demodectic mites infest a dog’s skin and hair follicles.

However, if the dog is already sick or old, these mites can overwhelm a canine’s immune system, resulting in itching and hair loss. Thankfully, this type of mange is not contagious and is usually easily treated.

Symptoms

Like people, dogs get itchy and scratch to relieve themselves all the time. So, just because you see that your dog is itching itself or more than usual does not mean that it has mange.

Nevertheless, if you notice your dog’s skin is becoming increasingly uncomfortable, there are some key symptoms to watch for to help detect mange.

Sarcoptic mange

PetMD states that the top three clinical signs of sarcoptic mange include severe itching, self-inflicted wounds (from itching), and hair loss.

Raised bumps, known as papules, can also be found on less fur-dense areas of the body, such as ankles, elbows, and armpits, although the mites infest the whole body.

Furthermore, as a result of extreme discomfort, a dog with sarcoptic mange may also experience decreased appetite, depression, and lethargy.

It is also not unusual for weight loss to occur, as the dog spends so much energy fighting off discomfort.

Demodectic mange

For the most part, demodectic mange is a much less noticeable skin infection than its sarcoptic counterpart. This is primarily because the demodectic mites irritate the dog’s hair follicles and not the actual skin.

Also, demodectic mange begins much more subtly than sarcoptic mange in terms of a dog’s level of itch with some small areas of hair loss.

However, puppies with demodectic mange, also known as “red mange” may develop scaly bald spots near the lips, head, and front legs.

Mange treatment options

Thankfully, treatment for mange in dogs is not only possible but usually successful.

And while treatment options and methods may vary depending on the severity of the skin infection, breed of dog, age, overall health, and more, it is suggested by Canine Journal that a licensed veterinarian should oversee the process.

Demodectic mange

Because demodectic mange is not as severe as sarcoptic mange, the treatment process for the infection is far less complicated or involved.

For the most part, the underlying cause of this type of mange is a weakened immune system, which is the first thing that is addressed.

Sometimes, a veterinarian may prescribe medication until the infection goes away or suggest a change in the dog’s diet and other suggestions to help reduce stress.

Sarcoptic mange

If your dog is unfortunate enough to have sarcoptic mange, the recovery process is far more intense. Typically, a veterinarian will wash dogs with scabicidal shampoo once a week for 4-6 weeks.

Medication will also be prescribed, although it can vary depending on the type of dog, its reaction to certain medications, and more.

Additionally, although the dog may stay at your house during its treatment, because of the contagious nature of sarcoptic mange, it should be quarantined from other pets and people.

However, it is imperative that you try to keep your dog as comfortable as possible during this time.

Prevention

All in all, there is no true guaranteed prevention, although there are several things you can do as an owner to decrease your dog’s chances of contracting it. These include:

• Practicing good hygiene
• Boosting your dog’s immune system
• Knowing your dog’s whereabouts
• Avoiding all contact with infected humans or animals

By taking these things into consideration, you can drastically decrease your dog’s likelihood of getting mange.

Not only can this help prevent your pet’s suffering, but it can also save you time, money, and the headache that comes along with it.

Furthermore, if you do know that your dog has mange and spreads it to other pets or animals, according to the lawyers at Gary C. Johnson, this could be seen as an act of negligence and leave you legally responsible for damage to another individual’s property.

Mange treatment costs

The cost of mange treatment for dogs can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the severity of the infection, the type of mange, and the location of the veterinarian.

You’ll also need to consider the cost of medication, shampoo, and other treatment supplies.

For example, treatment for demodectic mange may cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000, while treatment for sarcoptic mange can range from $200 to $1,000 or more.

It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan for your dog and to get an estimate of the associated costs.

Pet insurance may cover some of the costs of mange treatment, but this will depend on the specific policy and provider.

Generally, pet insurance policies will cover the cost of treatment for illnesses and injuries, including mange, as long as the policy was in effect before the condition was diagnosed.

However, pre-existing conditions may not be covered by pet insurance.

It is important to review your policy carefully and to speak with your insurance provider if you have any questions about coverage for mange treatment or other conditions.

Comfort your dog during treatment

While mange can be uncomfortable and even painful for dogs, it can also have an emotional impact on them.

Dogs with mange may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their appearance, especially if they have lost a lot of fur or developed scabs and sores on their skin.

Additionally, the intense itching and discomfort associated with mange can cause dogs to become anxious or depressed.

As a pet owner, it is important to comfort and support your dog during the treatment process.

This can include providing them with a comfortable bed or blanket to rest on, spending extra time with them to provide them with attention and affection, and ensuring that they have access to plenty of water and nutritious food.

You should also make sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully and administer any medications as prescribed.

Additionally, it is important to keep your dog away from other pets and people during the treatment process to prevent the spread of the infection.

With the right care and treatment, most dogs with mange are able to make a full recovery and return to their normal, happy selves.

By providing your dog with love, support, and proper medical care, you can help them overcome this difficult time and return to enjoying life to the fullest.

Final thoughts on mange

Mange is a terrible skin condition caused by mites that cause great discomfort to dogs that contact them.

Although the two types differ in severity, it is always essential to take your dog to a professional upon the first sign of discomfort or health problems.

The quicker they are diagnosed, the quicker they can be treated, and the less painful the process will be for all the parties involved.

Alana Redmond is a content writer who specializes in law and consumer safety. She also works with Casey Garey Law, a San Diego law firm specializing in dog bite injuries.

 

 

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