Treatment of Demodectic Mange

Demodectic Mange is a skin disease cause by a microscopic parasitic mite.

Demodectic mites are found in small numbers in the hair follicles of

normal dogs. In dogs with demodicosis, however, these mites proliferate,

and large numbers inhabit the skin and hair follicles. Dogs that inherit

an immunodeficiency cannot control the number of mites, thus develop skin

disease. Symptoms vary between dogs. Demodicosis may involve only 1 or 2

small areas of skin (localized mange). Localized demodicosis is the

mildest form. Usually only a few areas of hair loss on the head or front

legs occur. Most dogs with the localized form recover more rapidly.

Generalized demodicosis is serious and often difficult to treat. Large

areas of the body may be affected, and often the areas are also infected

by bacteria. In these cases, the skin is red, crusty and warm, and has many

pustules. It may bleed easily and has a strong, rancid odor. While most of

these cases are curable, some can only be controlled, and periodic

re-treatment is necessary. Skin scrapings are done for diagnosis. Give all

medication as instructed and limit your pets activity.

DOGS WITH DEMODEX SHOULD NOT BE BRED AS THE MANGE IS GENETICALLY SPREAD.