Mange can cause significant discomfort for dogs, leading to itching, skin irritation and potential health complications. Seeing your dog unhappy and uncomfortable due to mange is distressing, and early recognition of the signs is crucial for getting them the veterinary care they need.
Understanding mange is key to managing this condition in partnership with your vet and taking proactive steps to prevent it. In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of mange, delve into how vets treat it, as well as discuss effective strategies for managing this common canine concern.
What is mange?
Mange is a skin disease in dogs caused by tiny, microscopic mites that liveon or within the skin. While the thought of these tiny creatures might be unsettling, mange is actually a fairly common problem. There are different types of mange, each caused by a specific species of mite. Some types of mange, like sarcoptic mange, are highly contagious, while others, like demodectic mange, are not.
Common types of mange
There are two main types of canine mange: Sarcoptic mange (also called scabies) and Demodectic mange.
- Sarcoptic mange is very contagious and can spread quickly between dogs, and even to humans, causing itchy rashes. These mites are highly irritating, causing intense itching and discomfort for your dog.
- Demodectic mange doesn't usually spread to other dogs or people. This type of mange is often linked to problems with the dog's immune system, which helps their body fight off infections. While not contagious, it can cause significant skin issues for the affected dog.
Symptoms of Mange in Dogs
Recognising the signs of mange early on is important for effective treatment and preventing further complications. The symptoms of mange can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Generally, they can be categorised into early and advanced stages.
Early-stage mange symptoms
In the early stages, mange can be tricky to notice. Your dog might scratch a little more than usual or have some skin irritation. They might also have some redness or a few bumps on their skin. However, these early signs can quickly get worse if left untreated which is why spotting dog mites early on is so important.
Advanced stage mange symptoms
As the condition gets worse, you might see more obvious signs. Your dog may scratch a lot, and their skin might become very red and inflamed. They could also lose fur, and you might see scabs or sores on their skin. In severe cases, mange can make your dog very unwell, affecting their overall health and wellbeing.
Causes of Mange in Dogs
Mange is caused by tiny mites that may be found where dogs live and play or passed from other animals. In healthy dogs, the immune system usually keeps mite populations under control. But if a dog's immune system is weakened, the mites can multiply and cause problems. This can happen if the dog is stressed, not eating well, or has other health issues. Young dogs are also more susceptible as their immune systems are still developing.
Does my dog have mange?
If you think your dog might have mange, it's very important to take them to the vet. The vet may take samples from your dog’s skin and look at these using a microscope. They will then tell you the appropriate course of action.
Mange Treatment Options for Dogs
If your dog has been diagnosed with mange, don't worry! There are effective treatments to help them feel better and recover. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications and lifestyle adjustments.
Medications (topical and oral)
To treat mange, the vet will usually give your dog medicine to kill the mites. This medicine may be a spot-on applied directly to the skin or given as a tablet. Your vet will determine how long your dog needs to continue treatment for, taking into account the type of mange and how severe your dog’s signs are.
Lifestyle changes and home remedies
Alongside medication, there are things you can do at home to help your dog get better. This includes washing their bedding often, making sure they eat a balanced, nutritious diet, and sometimes using special shampoos to soothe their skin and reduce irritation.
Preventing Mange in Dogs
The best way to deal with mange is to prevent it from happening in the first place! While this is not always possible, the following can help support your dog’s skin health:
- Regular grooming and hygiene: Keeping your dog clean and their living space tidy is very important - regular brushing and bathing, along with washing their bedding and toys, for example.
- Parasite prevention: Some of the products that your vet may prescribe to prevent fleas and ticks can also help keep those pesky mites away.
Mange is a treatable condition, especially if you catch it early. If you notice any changes in your dog's skin, like redness, hair loss, or excessive scratching, it's important to see the vet right away. By keeping a close eye on your dog and taking them for regular checkups at the vet, you can help keep them healthy and happy.
Remember that prevention is always the best approach. Grooming your dog regularly can help keep your dog's skin clean and healthy. And don't forget to talk to your vet about using flea and tick preventatives, as these can also help prevent mange.
