What Is Sarcoptic Mange?
Sarcoptic mange is a skin disease that affects dogs. It is caused by mites that burrow into the skin, causing itching. While sarcoptic mange can affect humans and other pets, the mites prefer to live off dogs, according to PetEducation.com.
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Function
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The mites that cause sarcoptic mange affect dogs when the female mite burrows into the dog's flesh, laying eggs as she goes. These eggs hatch, the nymphs feed off the dog, the adults mate and the cycle is then repeated.
Significance
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Dogs become infected by mites not only from contact with infected dogs but, since the mites can live for some time off an animal, by coming into contact with the mites themselves.
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Symptoms
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Common symptoms of sarcoptic mange include itchiness and hair loss. Lesions can form on areas that are excessively scratched.
Prevention/Solution
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Numerous options exist for treating sarcoptic mange. One option involves shaving the dog, bathing it and then dipping it in medicine that kills mites. Insecticides also can be applied to the dog to kill the mites.
Warning
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It is very possible you can contract sarcoptic mange from your dog. However, symptoms will be mild and even resolve on its own.
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