Home Remedies for Mange

Everybody knows the term "mangy mutt," referring to a pooch who's seen better days. It conjures up the image of some poor broken-down mutt with a ratty, patchy coat. In fact, that's pretty much how dogs with mange really look. Mange is caused by an infestation of mange mites. It's Latin name, Demodex canis, gives rise to the other formal names for this condition: demodicosis or demodectic mange. Most healthy dogs actually carry around a small population of Demodex mites. The trouble starts when there's a population explosion and the mites get out of control. Demodicosis can be localized, meaning it's found on only one area of the dog's body, or it can be generalized, spreading over the entire body. Localized demodicosis is more common, and it often clears up on its own. On the other hand, generalized demodicosis, which fortunately is pretty rare, requires the dog be dipped once or twice a week for six to eight weeks. The dog usually has to be shaved for the dip to be most effective. Demodicosis is believed to be, at least in part, genetic, and dogs diagnosed with it should be neutered so they don't pass on the tendency. Breeds that tend to have more than their share of demodicosis are Afghan Hounds, American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Chinese Shar-Pei, Collies, Dalmatians, Dobermans, German Shepherd Dogs, Great Danes, Old English Sheepdogs, and Pugs. Another type of mange mite, Sarcoptes scabei (var. canis), is the cause of sarcoptic mange -- better known as scabies. This mite burrows into the skin's outermost layer and lays its egg. The eggs hatch, the larvae mature, and the emergent adult mites start the life cycle all over again. Scabies is highly contagious, and is one of the more common conditions that can be passed from dogs to people through direct contact. What to Do About It The best treatment for mange is prevention. Regular brushing and baths will help remove scaly skin and scabs caused by mange and can help keep your dog mange-free. If your dog has been infested with mange mites, thoroughly wash his bedding or other sleeping areas. Do not try any other treatment at home until you take your dog to the vet. When to Call the Vet Signs of localized demodicosis are patchy hair loss and scaly, reddened skin around the face or on the front legs. Generalized demodicosis has similar signs, but they are widespread and more severe, being especially likely to affect the feet. To diagnose demodicosis, your vet will gently scrape off some of the superficial layers of the dog's skin and examine them under the microscope to see if mites are present. If necessary, the vet will prescribe a dip and antibiotics to ward off any secondary infections caused by scratching. Unfortunately, demodicosis is persistent and recovery isn't guaranteed, especially in older dogs. Signs of scabies are hair loss, small red bumps, and intense itching. Like demodectic mange, scabies is diagnosed through skin scrapings and treated with a weekly dip that your vet will prescribe. If your dog is diagnosed with scabies, you'll need to isolate her until her course of treatment is complete, and thoroughly clean everything she's been in contact with. Sarcoptic mange mites are extremely persistent, so other dogs in the household should also be treated, even if they don't show signs. I did not post pictures since they were very graphic.