When you think of a “mangy mutt,” you probably picture a little rickety dog with a shabby, matted coat of fur. That’s probably because that’s exactly how dogs look when they have a case of mange. Mange, otherwise known as demodicosis or demodectic mange, is triggered by a plague of mange mites. Small numbers of these Demodex mites are found on healthy dogs, but sometimes the mites unexpectedly multiply, and that’s when the problems start. Sometimes demodicosis is restricted to a small area on the dog’s body; this is the most common form of the illness, and it usually runs its course and resolves itself in due time. Generalized demodicosis, which means that the infestation covers the dog’s entire body, is more rare, but it’s a lot harder to get rid of. Treatment usually involves shaving and dipping the dog a couple of times per week for six weeks. Sarcoptes scabei is another kind of mange mite which is more commonly known as scabies. The scabies mite tunnels into the skin and lays eggs. These eggs hatch and eventually become adult mites that begin the cycle again. Scabies is very infectious, and dogs can even transmit it to humans through direct contact. Prevention is the best route to take with mange. Techniques for preventing mange include routine baths and brushings; this will eliminate any scabs caused by mange and keep infestations to an absolute minimum. If your dog develops a serious infestation, make sure you completely wash all bedding and other areas where your dog tends to lie. Visit the vet before you attempt any other home remedies. The most common signs of localized demodicosis are red skin or scales on the face and legs and an irregular pattern of hair loss. Generalized demodicosis has the same symptoms in a more severe variation, covering your dog’s body and even affecting the feet. Your veterinarian will take a scraping of a scab from the skin and examine it for mites. He may prescribe antibiotics and dipping, but complete eradication isn’t guaranteed, particularly in more elderly dogs. Scabies is also diagnosed through taking scrapings of the skin, and it is characterized by hair loss, severe itching and small red bumps. If your dog has scabies, your vet will likely prescribe dipping, and you will need to isolate the dog until the treatment is finished. Since scabies is also transmitted to humans, you’ll want to make sure to completely scrub all beddings and home surfaces your dog has come into contact with. Other household dogs should receive scabies treatment as well, even if they don’t have symptoms. Ideally, dogs diagnosed with mange should be neutered, since it’s considered to be mostly genetic. Breeds prone to demodicosis include Afghan Hounds, American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Chinese SharPei, Collies, Dalmatians, Dobermans, German Shepherd Dogs, Great Danes, Old English Sheepdogs and Pugs. Word count: 483
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