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Demodectic Mange In Dogs
from: Kyle BesserDemodectic mange, which is also called Demodicosis or Red Mange, in dogs is usually caused when the Demodex canis mites begin an intense period of propagation and the dog's immune system is unable to keep the mites in check. Some dogs are more sensitive
The Demodex canis mite occurs naturally in the hair follicles of most dogs in low numbers around the face and other areas of the body. Puppies usually acquire these mites while nursing. In most dogs, these mites never cause problems. Small patches of Demodectic mange often correct themselves over time as the dog's immune system matures, although treatment is usually recommended.
However, in certain situations, such as an underdeveloped or impaired immune system, intense stress or malnutrition, the mites can reproduce rapidly, which causes symptoms in sensitive dogs. Symptoms range from mild irritation and hair loss on a small patch of skin to severe and widespread inflammation. Secondary infections may result. In rare cases, the condition can become life threatening.
Minor cases of demodectic mange usually do not cause much itching but might cause pustules on the dog's skin, redness, scaling, hair loss, or any combination of these. Demodectic mange most commonly appears first on the face, around the eyes, at the corners of the mouth, and on the forelimbs and paws. In the more severe form, hair loss can occur in patches all over the body and can be accompanied by crusting, pain, enlarged lymph nodes and deep skin infections.
Minor, localized cases are often treated with medicated shampoos and not treated with agents aimed at killing mites as these infestations often resolve within several weeks in young dogs. Demodectic mange with secondary infection is treated with antibiotics and medicated shampoos as well as parasiticidal agents. It is always wise to consult a vet before beginning any treatment for your dog.
Demodectic mange is not generally contagious to people, other animals, or other dogs, except from mother dogs to their puppies. The mites are specific to their hosts, and other mammal species are host to one or two unique species of Demodex mites.
Transmission usually occurs from the mother dog to nursing puppies during their first few days after birth. The transmission of these mites from mother dog to her puppies is normal, which is why the mites are normal inhabitants of the dog's skin, but some dogs are sensitive to the mites, which can lead to the development of demodectic mange.
Some breeds appear to have an increased risk of mild cases of Demodectic mange when they are young dogs. These breeds include the Afghan Hound, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Chihuahua, Collie, Dalmatian, Doberman Pinscher, Bulldog, English Bull Terrier, German Shepherd, Great Dane, Miniature Bull Terrier, Old English Sheepdog, Pug, Rat Terrier, Shar Pei, and West Highland White Terrier. There is strong evidence that a predilection for juvenile Demodectic mange is inherited, and those suffering from this form should not be bred.
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