If you've ever called your dog a mangy mutt it was probably an expletive directed to the perpetrator of some mishap. Maybe he grabbed something off the dinner table or chewed your best slippers. But if your dog really DOES have mange, that's a different story and a lot more serious than a pair of chewed slippers. Here's a little information on mange symptoms, how to recognize the condition and what to do about it.
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.
Cheyletiella mange(also known as walking dandruff) is caused by a larger, red mite, that can actually be seen under a magnifying glass. Symptoms are a heavy sprinkling of white dandruff flakes on the dog's head, neck and back and a mild itching. It's contagious but short-lived.
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.
Symptoms for this type of mange include intense itching, localized hair loss and crust forming on the tips of the ears. If untreated, the hair loss will probably spread to the entire body of the animal. And don't forget, it can spread to YOU too, because this condition is contagious and passes from animals to humans. You should take a trip to the Vet... The sooner the better.
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!
Find out more about how you can spot and treat dog mange using simple ingredients that can provide you the fast results you want. When treating mange dogs can begin feeling better and healthier quickly!
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