Mange Treatment

Mange in dogs is a skin problem that is typically marked by patchy hair loss distinctly visible on the animal's fur. The bald irregular spots are initially seen on the ears and the legs. Also known as canine scabies, this skin problem occurs due to invasion of certain species of microscopic mites that burrow the outermost layer and reside below the skin. This mite infestation can drive the dog crazy as it causes excessive scratching. With no treatment, dog health deteriorates and mite infestation spreads forming larger areas of hair loss patterns.

Types of Mange
Demodex canis, sarcoptes scabiei and cheyletiella are the three types of mite that are responsible for causing this skin problem in dogs. It is observed that sarcoptic and demodectic mange are the common type of scabies diagnosed in dogs.

Treatment
As there are different species of mites, treatment will vary depending upon what type of mite is responsible for causing this skin problem. It is discussed below:

Selamectin
Selamectin (Revolution) is the most commonly prescribed medication for treating sarcoptic mange in dogs. It is basically a topical solution, an insecticide that has been extremely effective to get rid of sarcoptic mange. Most importantly, it has received FDA approval and has a good safety record as compared to other medications. Revolution is a prescription medication and can also be purchased directly from a veterinarian's clinic. Usually applying this topical solution just once is regarded as a cure for mange. However, the medication will have to be used again after a gap of one month if the infection is severe.

Ivermectin
This is yet another remedy that has been used in the treatment of sarcoptic and demodectic mange in dogs. When used properly, it can certainly eliminate the mite infestation. Sarcoptic or demodectic mange treatment with ivermectin involves use of tablets, topical solution or an injection. Unfortunately, ivermectin for the treatment of mange has not yet received FDA approval as it is not suitable for all breeds of dogs. Also, as large doses of Ivermectin need to be administered to eradicate mange, FDA has put its approval on hold.

Medicated Shampoo
When the dog is diagnosed with cheyletiella mite infestation, the vet may prescribe a medicated shampoo. The affected dog typically shows the presence of dandruff and mild hair loss. Also, referred to as walking dandruff, this form of mange responds quite well when the dog is given a bath with selenium sulfide shampoo once in a week. Generally, 4-5 sessions of bathing with selenium sulfide are enough to destroy the mites.

Lime Sulfur Dips
This mange removal method involves pouring diluted lime sulfur solutions on the areas showing mite infestation. The solution can be harmful to the dog if it is ingested or accidentally goes inside the ear or comes in contact with the eyes. So, the owner has to be very careful, when it comes to using lime sulfur dips. The veterinarian recommends use of protective collar for dogs and gloves for dog owners before applying lime sulfur dips. Prior to using lime sulfur dips, one has to first rinse the dog's skin with a benzoyl peroxide shampoo. Once it is done properly then go for lime sulfur dips. Let the applied lime sulfur solution completely dry and do not rinse, for the treatment to be effective. Lime sulfur dips are recommended for severe forms of sarcoptic and demodectic mange. Instead of pouring, one can also use a sponge to apply lime sulfur solution.

Amitraz Dips
An alternative to lime sulfur dips is a solution containing amitraz (Mitaban). Amitraz dips have also been successful in eliminating stubborn mite infestation of sarcoptic and demodectic mange in dogs. The procedure remains the same; The dog is given a bath with a mild soap followed by drying the skin using a towel. The mixture containing amitraz is then applied carefully to all the affected areas.

Other Drugs
Moxidectin and milbemycin oxime are other drugs used when the dog affected with demodectic mange shows intolerance towards usage of ivermectin. These drugs are either administered orally or applied topically to treat mange. A localized demodectic mange may well go away with the use of over the counter mange cream. Milbemycin oxime is generally used when the dog does not respond to amitraz dips.

Home Remedies
Home remedies involves use of solution containing hydrogen peroxide and borax. To prepare this solution, add a tablespoon of borax in half a liter (500ml) of water. Now put 2-3 drops of hydrogen peroxide to the solution. Mix it well and then apply it on the affected areas of the body. After application, allow the dog to rest under a fan, so as to dry the solution.

Diet
Whether pet owners opt for prescription medications or home remedies, an appropriate diet for the dog is very important to get rid of mange. Any sort of treatment won't be effective if the diet does not contain high quality dog food. Raw green vegetables like alfalfa sprouts and watercress make the immune system stronger, thus helping to combat the mite invasion effectively. Besides raw food, supplements that are good for the skin are also recommended to get rid of mange at the earliest. The doctor may prescribe fish oil supplements as well as vitamin C and E supplements for your pet in order to restore a shiny coat of fur.

Duration of Mange
Well, it all depends on how severe the mite infestation is. It is obvious that mange that has spread to large areas of the body will require more time to cure than localized mange. Generalized mange that has invaded a major portion of the body may need 3-4 sessions of amitraz or lime sulfur dips and at least 2-3 months to go away. On the other hand, localized mange may get cured within a month with proper treatment.

Cost
Treating localized mange is not at all expensive whereas generalized mange can be costly as well as time-consuming as repeated treatment is necessary to kill the mites. So, the key to reduce the cost of treatment is early medical intervention. In other words, treatment should begin immediately, when the dog shows initial symptoms of localized mange.

Medications to get rid of mange are not free from side effects and so the dog's health needs to be strictly monitored by a veterinarian. The dog owner should also look for side effects like diarrhea, trembling and vomiting and immediately report it to the veterinarian if any.