Rabies in dogs. What it is, how it affects the animal and how it can be treated

Mange in dogs is a parasitic skin condition that affects dogs regardless of breed, size or skin type and can cause significant discomfort to the animal. This is caused by various mites, small parasites that burrow into the dog’s skin and feed on it. Unfortunately, mange affects many animals, in some cases even humans, but by following a series of treatments it is possible to cure it. Unlike other diseases, scabies is one of the diseases that can be seen with the naked eye, right from the appearance of the first symptoms.

How many types of scabies are there in dogs and how do they manifest themselves?

Let’s return to our furry four-legged friends, among dogs scabies can be of two types represented by the types of mites present, namely:

• sarcoptic mange, commonly called scabies, caused by the parasite Sarcoptes Scabiei;
• Demodectic mange, commonly known as red mange, is caused by the Demodex canis mite.

Demodectic mange

As mentioned, demodectic mange is caused by the Demodex canis mite, which is a normal inhabitant of the hair follicles of all dogs. Mites are transmitted from mother to puppy in the first days of life. Additionally, neglected or stray senior dogs with weakened immune systems can develop or activate these mites. Most dogs have Demodex mites in their bodies and never develop problems from them. However, some dogs may have an overgrowth of these mites, which can lead to hair loss and skin irritation. This is more likely to occur in puppies and young dogs with weakened immune systems. The first symptom of this condition is hair loss, usually around the eyes and on the face.

Demodectic mange is not contagious to humans or other dogs with strong immune systems. To identify this type of mange, the veterinarian will take a sample of the dog’s affected skin and analyze it under a microscope for the presence of mites.

The most common symptoms of demodectic mange are:

• hair loss;
• redness and irritation of the skin;
• increased level of sebum in the skin;
• infections;
• skin inflammation;
• the presence of crusts on the skin.

Sarcoptic mange

Sarcoptic mange is much less common than demodectic mange, but it is much more contagious, being transmissible from dog to dog or even dog to human. It is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, an eight-legged, circular mite that penetrates the skin and lays eggs. The eggs hatch and the larvae move to the surface of the skin, feeding on the skin and causing intense itching. When the dog scratches, it breaks the skin, allowing bacteria to enter, thus causing secondary infections. Sarcoptic mange can be transmitted from one dog to another through direct contact or through contact with contaminated waste or grooming tools.

Once in contact with the mites, they settle in the dog’s body causing the first symptoms. Symptoms begin to appear after 2-8 weeks and generally begin with infections and irritation in the elbows, chest, or ears. If these early symptoms are left untreated, they can spread quickly.

The most common symptoms of sarcoptic mange are:

• redness and rash;
• itching;
• hair loss;
• yeast or bacterial infections;
• yellow scabs on the skin;
• inflammation of the lymph nodes.

To detect this type of scabies, the veterinarian must collect a piece of the animal’s skin, which he will analyze under a microscope, observing whether mites or mite eggs are present.

How is canine scabies treated?

Regardless of whether you notice only a few symptoms and regardless of whether they are in the early or advanced stages, it is necessary for your four-legged friend to undergo treatment and, of course, a consultation with your veterinarian. If scabies is left untreated, it can cause secondary infections and lead to more serious health problems.

Treatment for both types of scabies involves killing the mites causing the problem. This can be done with topical medications, oral medications, or a combination of both. In more severe cases, your veterinarian may recommend hospitalization and treatment with intravenous medications.

Of course, in addition to these, under the guidance of the veterinarian, it may be necessary to trim the animal and give it frequent baths, using specific shampoos for this condition.

With proper diagnosis and treatment from your veterinarian, most cases of canine scabies can be successfully treated so your pet can enjoy a healthy, itch-free, irritation-free life.

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