Sarcoptic Mange In Dogs Symptoms And Treatment
Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is a highly contagious disease cause by microscopic mites, Sarcoptes scabiei. The parasite commonly affects young dogs and dog with poor nutrition, but can affect healthy dogs who are exposed to the mites.
Just a few mites can cause severe itching. The male mites live on the surface of the skin. The females will burrow under the top layers of the skin forming tunnels and laying eggs along the tunnels. The female dies after laying her eggs. The eggs hatch into larvae and then molt into nymphs. When the nymphs reach the adult stage they return to the surface of the skin, mate, and the cycle starts over again. The entire life cycle of the mite is three weeks long. They prefer to live on the skin and will only survive a few days in the environment, but may survive up to three weeks in a cool environment.
The mites create small red bumps at the dogs' elbows, hocks (ankles), chest, abdomen and the edges of the ears. The infected dog will scratch and bite at his skin causing more skin trauma which can result in a secondary bacterial infection. Advanced infestations will create crusty sores, patchy hair loss, and darkening of the skin. The mites construct an allergic reaction which does not respond to symptomatic treatment, and the itching may persist for several weeks after the infestation is eliminated. It may take several weeks after exposure to the mites until the itching starts, but a dog who has been infested before will develop hypersensitivity and the signs will be more rapid and severe.
Transmission is by contact with infected dogs or by contact with mites in an infected environment. Humans may be infected by Scarcoptes scabiei but they will not reproduce on humans. There are many species of scabies mites and they are host-specific reproducing only on their preferred host. Small red bumps will appear on the arms, neck and waistline and will regress within two weeks' time.
There are several types of treatment to eliminate scabies mites. All animals in the household should be treated at the same time to prevent reinfestation.
Antiparasitic dips can be given every five to seven days for six treatments. Dips are generally safe but can pain porcelain and jewelry and gloves should be worn while treating the dog. Dips containing sulphur will leave a temporary yellowish stain on the coats of white-haired dogs. The dog should be treated outdoors and completely dry before allowing him wait on in the house to avoid staining carpeting and upholstery. Dipping is the best choice for puppies less than four weeks venerable and for breeds who are sensitive to antiparasitic drugs.
Imervectin (Heartgard) is an antiparasitic prescription drug commonly used as a heartworm preventive. Administration once every two weeks for three treatments will eliminate scabies mites. This drug should be used only under the supervision of a veterinarian, especially in dogs who have heartworm disease. Imervectin can cause toxic reactions in Collies, Shelties, Australian Shepherds and other herding breeds and should be used with caution. Its use is not advised for puppies less than six weeks old.
Selamectin (Revolution) is a topical antiparasitic agent commonly used to destroy ticks and fleas. It is a safe and effective treatment for infestations of mites but may cause rare side effects such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and muscle tremors.
The veterinarian may also prescribe antibiotics for any secondary bacterial infections that may have developed. The household should be cleaned and vacuumed regularly and bedding washed in hot water to avoid reinfestation.
Reduce your dog's chances of becoming infested with scabies by feeding him a proper diet and keeping him well groomed, so that his skin and coat remain healthy. Avoid contact with infected dogs and places where dogs congregate such as dog parks and kennels.
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Filed under Heartgard by on Dec 11th, 2011. 