Demodectic

Mange is a parasitic skin disease caused by microscopic mites. There are two different mange mites that cause skin disease in dogs: Demodex Canis and Sarcoptes Scabei. Mites are not insects; they are more closely related to spiders.

All dogs raised normally by their mothers have Demodex Canis. They get it from cuddling with the mother during their first few days. Puppies raised by hand from birth do not ever get this mite because after a pup gets older it cannot pick up demodex mites. Demodectic mange, sometimes just called demodex and more often referred to as “Red Mange” is the most common form of mange in dogs. Demodectic Mange is not contagious. It most often occurs when a dog has an immature immune system (less than 18 months).

Unlike Sarcoptic Mange, Demodectic Mange does not itch severely, though the dog usually loses hair in patches, mostly on the face, around the eyes. There are three forms of Demodectic mange or “demodicosis”.

• Localized – Usually presents as a red, scaly, well-defined patch on the face or forelegs.It generally goes away on its own. Some topical ointments can be used to “treat” it. Our pet specialist at Jeffers, a Certified Pet Dog Trainer, recommends Pierces Nu-Stock. “The company has been around for about forty years and it is a wonderful product.”
• Generalized – Entire dog is affected by patchy fur, skin infections, and scaly skin. Usually starts as localized ~ mostly occurs in young pups. An older dog with demodicosis may have an underlying problem with its immune system, possibly even cancer. PLEASE consult your vet. 30-50% of dogs under 1 year recover spontaneously without treatment.

There is a hereditary component to the development of generalized demodectic mange and a dog with a history of it should not be bred.

• Demodectic Pododermatitis – Confined to the paws, usually accompanied by bacterial infections.

Stress is an important factor determining the degree and of severity of demodicosis. 

1. Because it is hereditary and pregnancy and hormone changes are stressful, females should be spayed as soon as the disease is under control.
2. Be mindful of all parasites but fleas can exacerbate the itchiness and skin infection.
3. Keep vaccinations and records up to date.

Skin infections are often present in these cases and antibiotics may be necessary but it is IMPORTANT that cortisone type medications NOT be used as they may compromise the immune system allowing the mite an advantage.

NEVER dip your dog in motor oil. This can cause rashes and skin destruction. The hydrocarbons can be absorbed through the skin and drop blood pressure dangerously low. If it is licked off by the dog it can cause vomiting and aspiration of the oil into the lungs. It may also cause kidney and liver damage.     - -  Next Week - - Part II: Sarcoptic Mange - -

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 24th, 2007 at 9:45 pm and is filed under Pet Supplies. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.