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lissa.scott
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[ExtMAGDRL] DOE Topic #21: Sarcoptic and Demodetic Mange Hi All, It's been a while since we've had a Dog Owner Education topic, but since we're speaking of Sox's recovery from mange, it seems like an appropriate topic. There are several types of mange that can effect any dog at any time of year, so I'm presenting the two most common types as DOE Topic #21: Sarcoptic and Demodetic Mange. There are those who suggest that some breeds are more susceptible to demodetic mange, and that a Dane's "soft temperament" makes them prone. Another common factor is a compromised immune system which allows demodex mites to take hold. In some cases, if underlying health and environmental issues are resolved, the condition may correct itself. Both types of mange may start as localized irritations. However, they can mimic other skin irritations caused by autoimmune diseases, allergies, bacterial infections secondary to flea allergies, and contact dermatitis which makes it impossible for the pet owner to diagnose it with any success. If itching and irritation spreads or persists beyond a few weeks, your best recourse is a trip to a vet to determine exactly what's going on. If a dog is diagnosed with mange, the good news is it's treatable! What you should know about the two common types is: Demodetic mange: Also called demodex, most puppies have these mites which live between the hair follicle and shaft. As puppies grow into adulthood, their immune system normally keeps the number of mites in check and most dogs never develop an outbreak. However if the immune system is weakened by disease or medications that are immunosuppressive, the mites can multiply. As the infestation progresses, secondary bacterial infections occur which results in formation of pus and drainage from the skin surface. -- Mostly appears in young dogs as patches of scaliness and redness around the eyes and mouth, legs and trunk. -- Occasionally appears in older dogs as widespread patches of redness, hair loss, and scaliness. -- Is not contagious to humans or other animals except from mother to puppies. -- Presence may indicate an underlying medical condition -- The treatment is MitabanTM dip (amitraz) that is applied to the skin, and with 1% ivermectin prescribed for difficult cases. -- There's a good resource here: http://www.thepetprofessor.com/articles/article.aspx?id=420 and here: http://www.marvistavet.com/html/sarcoptic_mange.html Sarcoptic mange: Unlike Demodex mange, Sarcoptes mites (scabies) do not inhabit the hair follicles of dogs. These mites live in the upper layer of the skin. They are acquired by contact with infested dogs or objects that have been in contact with infested animals. -- Sarcoptic mites are highly contagious to other dogs and may be passed by close contact with infested animals, bedding, or grooming tools. -- Commonly affected areas are the head, ears, underside, elbows and feet. -- Signs include intense itching, generalized hair loss, a skin rash, and crusting. -- Skin infections may develop secondary to the intense irritation. -- People who come in close contact with an affected dog may develop a rash, however since human hosts are inappropriate they usually go away on their own. -- Canine and human bedding should be washed frequently, as well as cleaning grooming tools, collars, halters/harnesses, or other items that come in contact with the dog. -- Treatments include amitraz, lime-sulfur dips, and 1% ivermectin. -- There's a good resource here: http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_sarcoptic_mange.html and here: http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1589&articleid=764 Your best defense against mange is to keep your dog clean and in tip-top health. And as always, thanks for educating yourself to benefit all dogs and their owners! Lissa Scott AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator MD/DC Adoption Screens & Events Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League http://www.magdrl.org "A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself." - Josh Billings

Source: http://www.lissa.net/Joya/MAGDRL/DOE_Topics/DOE_Topic21_Sarcoptic_and_Demodetic_Mange.pdf