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Dog Excessive Shedding Parasites Article
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Canine Scabies
from: Kyle BesserCanine Scabies, which is also known as Sarcoptic mange, is a highly contagious infestation of a burrowing mite called Sarcoptes scabiei canis. The canine sarcoptic mite can also infest humans, cats, pigs, horses, sheep and various other species.
Sarcoptes scabiei canis mites dig into and through the skin, causing intense itching and crusting, and the area can quickly become infected. Hair loss and crusting frequently appear first on elbows and ears. Skin damage can occur from the dog's intense scratching and biting and the secondary skin infection. Dogs with chronic sarcoptic mange (Canine Scabies) are often in poor condition.
Affected dogs need to be isolated from other dogs. The bedding and places they have occupied must be thoroughly cleaned. Other dogs that had contact with a diagnosed case should be examined to see if they have become infested.
There are a number of parasiticidal treatments useful in treating canine scabies. A veterinarian should be consulted before beginning any treatment.
Veterinarians usually attempt diagnosis with skin scrapings from multiple areas examined under a microscope. Sarcoptes can be difficult to diagnose. Because the mites may be present in relatively low numbers and because they are often removed by dogs chewing at themselves, they may be difficult to demonstrate. As a result, diagnosis of Canine Scabies (Sarcoptic mange) is often based on symptoms rather than actual confirmation of the presence of mites.
Your veterinarian will give you instructions on how to use certain topical medications that will kill the sarcoptic mites. Your vet may also give you an anti-inflammatory drug to relieve the symptoms of swelling and itching in the affected areas. It may also be necessary for your vet to prescribe an antibiotic if the scratching results in an infection.
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