Mange in dogs is also known as Demodicosis. It is an inflammatory disease caused by a mite called Demodex. The type of mite can determine the severity of this disease.

There are several side effects of mange again, depending on the type of mite inhibiting the hair follicles and skin. Mange can cause genetic disorders; immune system problems and lesions just to name a few. Mange is not only a condition known to affect dogs but cats as well.

Demodectic mange comes in two forms. It can be localized to a particular area of the body or can be general and cover the dogs entire body. Making a determination as to which type your pet has will determine the treatment your vet will administer.

While many vets will say they do not know what might cause mange, some believe that dogs can be predisposed to this disease due to an immune system problem. Generalized mange will appear as redness of the skin and patches of lesions over the entire body. Localized mange will be around the face, trunk or legs of the dog.

There are three identifiable mites that are known to cause mange. While transmissions of two are unknown, Demodex canis has been determined to get into the hair follicle. It is assumed that this is transferred from the mother to the newborn through nursing.

Diagnosis can be made in two ways. First it is ruled out that your dog does not just have an infection of the hair follicles. The vet will take a scrape of the skin and test that or if possible, test a urine sample.

It is very possible for the localized type of mange to cure itself over time. However, the generalized mange can require a lifetime of medication and lime-sulphur dips are used to relieve symptoms. There are some cases that are just so severe that treatment is not an option, therefore it is best to evaluate this with your vet in order to do what would be best for the dog.

Once a diagnosis of mange is determined, treatment will be advised. It is important to remember that you will need to be diligent with treatment upon diagnosis to keep the disease from spreading. Skin scrapings will need to be tested until it is determined that mites are no longer found.

Remember that if your pet has generalized mange, it's best that you not breed it. Prevention can be simply maintaining a healthy diet for your dog. Regular grooming and good health may be all you need to keep your dog free of mange.

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Written by Catherine V. Testaratti using tags: lime sulphur