If you’ve got a dog at home suffering from a condition called ‘mange’ you know the true meaning of the word ‘irritation’. The dog is irritated by the condition and you’re irritated at his constant scratching, biting and digging into his skin. Read on for a little bit about this problem and some information on mange symptoms.
Adult dogs are usually immune to the onset of mange. Puppies, however, with underdeveloped immune systems are most likely to be affected. And also older dogs whose immune systems may be somehow compromised. Mites are like tiny spiders, with eight legs, and usually microscopic in size. That means they can’t be seen by the naked eye, which makes them somewhat difficult to detect.
The first is called demodectic mange and is caused by a microscopic-sized mite called Demodex canis. Mites are like tiny, eight-legged spiders. They burrow themselves under the puppy’s skin and cause irritation and itching, which causes the dog to reply with endless scratching. Symptoms include thinning of the hair around the mouth and the eyes, as well as the front legs. This type of mange can heal by itself (sometimes) or it may need treatment.
Then there’s Cheyletiella, which is also referred to as ‘walking dandruff’. As you might guess, symptoms for this one are big white flake similar to dandruff. Well, it IS dandruff, and lots of it on the head, neck and body of the dog. These reddish mites are larger than the others and, when removed from the host, will die. This is a good reason for regular brushing of your pet. He’ll like it too.
The most serious form of mange is the one known as sarcoptic, which is also commonly referred to as scabies. The very small mite that causes this one lays eggs under the skin of its host. After 3 weeks these eggs will hatch and, before too long, be laying more eggs of their own. This condition will drive your dog nuts and should be taken seriously.
Dogs suffering from scabies will scratch till they bleed and dig and bite at themselves continually, trying to relieve the irritation these mites are providing. Chances are good the sores they cause will become infected, too. This means you’ll have to not only treat for the mites but for the infection too.
Sarcoptic mange symptoms include intense itching and resulting hair loss on the ears, face and legs. This is in the earlier stages. Later, if untreated, it could include total body hair loss. And don’t forget, it’s contagious to not only other animals but to humans too. This is one you want to handle right away by taking your pet in for professional treatment.
Mange symptoms can be mimicked by other conditions and sometimes proper diagnosis is difficult, especially if sores and infections are present. If your dog is exhibiting dry, itchy skin and scratching all the time, getting online and locating some more information on mange symptoms would be a smart move. Nobody wants a ‘mangy mutt’ around and, trust me, he doesn’t want to be a mangy mutt either!
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