How To Treat Mange In Dogs

 
what does dog mange look like
 

What Is Mange in Dogs?

How to Treat Mange in Dogs With Banixx

banixx pet care

Banixx Pet Care Spray

Mange, or canine scabies, is a skin disease caused by mites, which are tiny parasitic arachnids. Usually, these mites live naturally and harmlessly on your dog’s skin and hair follicles. However, when the mite population grows out of control, they burrow into the skin and cause the condition known as mange.

Symptoms of mange in dogs vary by the type of mange they have, but they include:

  • Intense itching
  • Hair loss
  • Redness and inflammation
  • Crusts and scabs
  • Skin lesions and sores
  • Changes in skin texture
  • Ear problems if mites infect the ears
  • Secondary bacterial or fungus infections if scratching leads to open sores

What causes the mite population to explode?

It may be because of an under-developed or suppressed immune system. This makes puppies and elderly dogs more susceptible to the disease. In addition, poor hygiene, stress and underlying health issues can contribute to the development of mange. 

For more detailed information on types of mange, please scroll down.


How to treat mange in dogs at home

The treatment for mange depends on the type of mite causing the condition (see below) and the severity of the infestation. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. 

how to treat mange in dogs at home

Knock out Mange with Banixx!

Ultimately, your goal is to get the mite population back under control. Mange treatment for dogs requires a one-two knock-out punch to be successful:

  1.  An anti-parasitic medication to kill the mites that cause the mange. Get this from your vet.  It’s generally not too expensive but the best part it’s quick and easy to administer.
  2. Banixx Pet Care to treat the open sores and hot spots on your dog. All that itching and scratching will result in skin sores, lesions and infections. Banixx will be key to the healing process.

(Note: Banixx alone will not solve the mange problem because it is not an anti-parasitic).

Another benefit is that you don’t need to worry about a conflict between the prescribed medication and the topical use of Banixx. It works in perfect concert with any prescription   Banixx is safe to use, even around your dog’s eyes and mouth. It has no clinical odor or sting, and does not contain steroids or antibiotics. 

Buy Banixx Pet Care Spray online now.

Please note: Sometimes, seasonal allergies may cause your dog to lose areas of hair.  This can be mistaken for mange, but, rest assured, your veterinarian will easily diagnose this.

More details about types of mange

Demodectic mange in dogs

Demodectic mange in dogs

Demodectic mange on dog

Demodectic mange, also known as red mange, is by far the most common.  Interestingly, all canines raised normally by their mothers have mites. It’s just….Mother Nature!  They're transferred from mom to pup via cuddling in the early days of life. Pups generally do not exhibit visible or clinical signs symptoms and will outgrow any infection.  This can be quite rapid as their immune systems develop.  And, thank goodness, it is not contagious.

On the other hand, if your dog has an inadequate immune system, the mange mites may start over-producing. Pretty soon, you'll notice hair loss, bald spots, and scabbing. This is often accompanied by a terrible smell. It's not unusual for large areas of your dog's body to be affected. It can also lead to ear infections. Your dog will scratch constantly at the intense itching. Consequently, his inflamed skin and associated skin infections may lead to open sores, lesions and rashes. In this case, recovery will take longer and may need more intense veterinary intervention.

There are three main types of Demodectic mange in dogs attributed to Demodex mites:

  • Localized mange cases, where these types of mites multiply rapidly in confined areas. This infection results in isolated scaly bald patches usually on the dog’s face, creating a polka-dot appearance. Approximately 90% of these mange cases are resolved with no treatment.
  • Generalized demodectic mange, affecting larger areas of skin or a dog’s entire body. Because the condition is tremendously itchy, this type of mange can result in sores, rashes, skin infections and even a bad odor from the infections.  You’ll need to consult with your vet in this case.
  • Demodectic pododermatitis mange, one of the most resistant forms of demodectic mange. This type is confined to the foot and accompanied by bacterial infections. Deep veterinary biopsies are often required to locate these mites and make a proper diagnosis.
Sarcoptic mange in dogs

sarcoptic mange in dogs

Sarcoptic mange on dog's face

Sarcoptic mange – now we’re talking on a more serious note Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious and caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. It presents similar symptoms, including hair loss, reddened skin and intense itchiness. Sarcoptic mites are particularly partial to areas where there is little hair, including the armpits, ears, belly or groin. These hidden locations allow them to develop easily without detection. If left untreated, it can spread to the dog’s entire body. In addition, other signs that your dog might have sarcoptic mange are fever, loss of appetite and general lethargy.

As noted Sarcoptic mange is extremely contagious! Your dog may contract it from other canines – and it can quickly spread to other pets and humans. 

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dog mange

What Should I Do If I Think My Dog Has Mange?

mange in dog

Dog with mange.

First, if your pooch shows signs of mange, take her to your veterinarian.

He/she will perform a physical exam, complete with skin scrapes. These will be analyzed and confirmed, or otherwise, by microscopic examination. 

It takes more than just the presence of mites to diagnose mange, since demodectic mites are found on all healthy dogs. Nonetheless, it's the skin lesions and infection, together with the mites, that confirm the diagnosis. The vet will then prescribe the appropriate anti-parasitic medication.

Then, treat your dog at home with Banixx.

Even if the mange is the type that can subside on its own, Banixx is still a good topical treatment to deal with any skin infections or hot spots caused by scratching, biting and licking. It will soothe and relieve the skin problems while the prescription medicine goes to work.

To apply: Simply spray it on or use a cotton ball well-moistened with Banixx. Press it gently in place on your dog's skin infection to make solid contact with the irritation site. Banixx must make good contact with infection to work well. Use Banixx on the afflicted skin morning and evening. Then, just let Banixx go to work! Maintain this treatment process with Banixx on your dog's problem skin until desired results are evident. It’s easy to do, not frightening or painful for your pooch, and instantly soothing!


To Isolate or not to Isolate?

If your dog is diagnosed with demodectic mange, you do NOT need to isolate him/her; he or she is not contagious. She has most likely contracted mange because her immune system is weak and has been over-run by the mites.  It's also a compelling reason not to breed the dog, as her immune system is faulty, and it should not be passed on.

If your dog is diagnosed with sarcoptic mange, you have some work to do. You should isolate him.  At the same time be sure to clean/replace all bedding, disinfect the collar/grooming items, and sanitize your home thoroughly. In addition, get any other pets tested. You do NOT want this affecting every member of your family, including your children or yourself!

How Can I Prevent a Recurrence of Mange?

treatment for mange in dogs

Be proactive and bathe your dog.

Unfortunately, there are no known ways to prevent mange from occurring or recurring. But there are a few things you can do proactively to reduce the chances: 

  • Reduce exposure to other animals and caretakers. If you make use of doggie day cares, dog sitters, groomers, dog walkers, etc., your pup’s exposure grows. So if your pup is prone to mange or has immune system issues, limit these types of interactions.
  • Keep your dog on a regular, healthy, feeding schedule. Remember to provide lots of water and exercise to boost a healthy and strong immune system.
  • Give your dog regular baths , with Banixx Medicated Shampoo.  It’s potent yet incredibly kind on a dog’s skin since it’s a shampoo and moisturizer in one!  Carefully examine his skin for signs of irritations, redness, rashes or sores. And don’t forget his collar and bedding.  A good hygiene regimen – including regular grooming - helps combat a whole “host” of problems with your pets.
  • Reduce chances of contagion. If your dog has sarcoptic mange, thoroughly clean or replace his bedding and collar and treat all animals in contact with him.
  • Keep an eye out on other animals. If you suspect a neighbor’s dog may be infected, keep your pets away to keep the disease at bay. And avoid contact for you pup with stray animals.
  • Bring your dog to the vet periodically. After all, it’s a good idea to re-check skin scrapes and ensure the mites have been stamped out. Buy Banixx or buy online.

    Learn how Banixx also helps dogs with hotspots.

    scabies in dogs