Mange is a skin disorder which is caused by the presence of mites which exist on the skin of the dog or in the hair follicles and may even burrow under the skin. Mites are always present on dogs but certain mites will cause reactions which create uncomfortable symptoms if left untreated. Canine mange is almost always caused by poor health of the dog or unsanitary living conditions.
Mites might not show up in the skin scraping, however, because your dog may have scratched the area, killing the mites in that spot. Just because mites don?t show up in the skin scraping doesn’t mean there are no mites on the dog, however, so a negative skin scraping doesn’t mean your dog doesn’t have mange.
Mites cause their damage by tunneling into the skin via the hair follicles and oil glands of the epidermal layer. Once the dog begins scratching the pruritus, soreness and redness begin to develop leading to crusty skin and scabs. Mites cannot be seen with the naked eye and must be confirmed under a microscope.
Vets can offer dog mange treatment such as a medicated dip, topical medications, antibiotics or they may recommend a type of collar to purchase.
Treatment with daily oral ivermectin was safe and effective. Treatment for your dog is accomplished by dipping the dog into a petroleum-based chemical such as Amitraz. Sold under several brand names, Amitraz is available without a prescription. Treatment usually requires regular dipping over a period of time, and possible antibiotic treatment where hair follicles have become infected.
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