Unraveling the Mystery of Mange: A Comprehensive Guide for Dog Owners
Vyankat Gangadhar Jadhav1 and B.S. Bharath Kumar2*
1 Livesstock Development Officer, Taluka Mini Veterinary Polyclinic, Degloor, Nanded, Maharashtra-431717
2 Veterinary Officer, Veterinary Dispensary, Katgal, Kumta, Uttara Kannada, Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Government of Karnataka-581362
Introduction
As devoted dog owners, we want nothing but the best for our furry companions. However, sometimes unexpected health issues can arise, and one such common concern is mange. Mange is a skin condition caused by mites that can affect dogs of all breeds and ages. In this article, we will explore the different types of mange, how to identify its symptoms, the importance of early diagnosis, effective treatment options, and essential prevention measures to keep your canine friend happy and healthy.
Mange is a parasitic skin disease caused by microscopic mites. Two different mange mites cause this skin disease in dogs.
Sarcoptic mange (Canine Scabies):
Sarcoptic mange in dogs (also known as scabies in dogs) is highly contagious parasite is found on dogs worldwide. Although the mites that cause mange prefer dogs, humans and other animals that come in contact with an infected dog may also become infected. The entire life cycle (17 to 21 days) of these mites is spent on the infested dog. Females burrow tunnels in the skin to lay eggs. Mange is easily spread between animals by contact. Indirect transmission, such as through infested bedding, is less common, but it can occur. The incubation period varies from 10 days to 8 weeks, depending on how severely the dog is infested.
The animal will have intense itching that comes on suddenly. The itching is probably caused by sensitivity to the mites’ droppings. Initially, infested skin will erupt with small, solid bumps. Because the dog scratches or bites itself to relieve the itch, these bumps and the surrounding skin are often damaged, causing thick, crusted sores. Secondary yeast or bacterial infections can develop in the damaged skin.
Demodectic mange (Demodecosis):
It is caused by a parasitic mite (Demodex canis) that lives in the hair follicles of dogs. Under the microscope, this mite is shaped like a cigar with eight legs. Demodectic mange, sometimes just called ‘Demodex’ or ‘red mange’ is the most common form of mange in dogs.
All normal dogs (and many humans) have a few of these mites on their skin. As long as the body’s immune system is functioning properly, these mites cause no harm. Demodectic mange most often occurs when a dog has an immature immune system, allowing the number of skin mites to increase rapidly. This disease occurs primarily in dogs less than 12 to 18 months of age. As the dog matures, its immune system also matures.
Symptoms of mange
- Excessive itching, scratching, and biting of the affected areas.
- Hair loss (Alopecia), particularly around the eyes, ears, muzzle, and legs.
- Red, inflamed, and crusty skin.
- Excoriations (self-inflicted superficial or deep wounds)
- Raised bumps (papules) most commonly on the chest.
- Presence of scabs and sores.
- Unpleasant odor coming from the skin due to bacterial infections.
- Changes in behavior, such as restlessness or lethargy.
The sores appear first on the abdomen, chest, thick crusted skin typically found on the margins of the ears, the ankles (hocks), armpits, and elbows
secondary infections occur because of the skin lesions. Dogs with longterm, recurring mange develop oily dandruff (seborrhea), severe thickening of the skin with wrinkling and crust build-up, and oozing, weeping sores. Dogs affected this severely can become emaciated and may even die.
Diagnosis
Mange is typically diagnosed through a skin scrap test, a hair sample, or cytology. The use of a scalpel blade is non-invasive and allows the vet to scrap the skim deep enough for some irritation but allows for a removal of the hair follicle at the root. It’s important for the entire hair follicle to be removed, since demodex is often buried deep in the root. Other common tests that a vet may recommend include fecal testing, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, or in some severe cases, a skin biopsy.
Treatment
Once your veterinarian confirms the presence of mange, they will recommend a tailored treatment plan based on the severity and type of mange affecting your dog. Treatment options may include:
- Topical medications: Creams, ointments, or shampoos to target the mites and soothe irritated skin.
- Oral medications: Prescription drugs to control the mite infestation and boost the immune system.
- Medicated baths: To alleviate itching and promote healing of the skin.
- Antibiotics: To treat secondary bacterial infections that may accompany mange.
Remember that consistency and adherence to the treatment plan are key to achieving positive outcomes.
Prevention and control
Preventing mange is essential in maintaining your dog’s well-being. Some preventive measures include:
- Regular grooming and bathing to keep the coat clean and free of debris.
- Avoiding contact with stray or infected dogs.
- Ensuring a balanced diet and proper nutrition to strengthen the immune system.
- Regular check-ups with your veterinarian to catch any health issues early on.
For scabies, any dog that has come into contact with the infected dog must be treated and the environment they live in, disinfected. This includes kennels, crates, collars, bedding, toys, etc. It’s important for dogs in the environment to remain on monthly or tri-monthly preventatives to avoid infection.
Demodectic mange does not require environmental cleaning as it does not often transmit between dogs, though a monthly or tri-monthly miticidal preventative is still recommended.
Most dogs with mange can expect a full recovery with appropriate therapy. For chronic cases, it’s typically due to an underlying systemic illness or secondary infections. Mange is fatal when dogs receive the wrong therapy, or their underlying medical conditions are not managed correctly.
Conclusion
Mange may be a distressing condition, but with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, your canine companion can make a swift recovery. Remember that seeking professional veterinary guidance is vital for managing the different types of mange effectively. By being vigilant and practicing preventive measures, you can ensure your dog’s health and happiness for years to come.
