How to Diagnose Demodectic Mange on Dogs

Demodectic mange is a skin disease on dogs. It is from normal mites that live on the dog, however, the dog's immune system is compromised and the mites become aggravated.
It is generally seen in puppies but, can also effect older dogs. This mange (disease) is caused by a suppressed immune system, and can result in death if not corrected quickly.

Usually, Demodectic mange appears first on the dogs face, around the eyes and nose. The dog starts loosing hair and has a particular odor. Lesions (sores) appear on the face, neck, legs, arms or shoulders, with very red skin and can get quite painful. This disease at first reminds you of a skin allergy, with scratching, chewing and redness of the skin. No normal remedies for skin itching will work, and you will notice the disease is progressing.

Demodectic mange is not contagious. It is caused by a poorly developed immune system on puppies and immune system distress for older dogs. The mites are a normal occurrence and live on all dogs, however, flares up when the dogs system has been compromised. These mites are microscopic and resemble alligators. They live in the dog's hair follicle, thus the major loss of hair.

Some causes of immune system distress are:
*Poor Diet
*Cancer
*Thyroid problems
*Heartworm
*Cushing Disease

Veterinarians will need to do a skin scraping test and or a blood workup to properly diagnose this condition.

Cortisone shots may also contribute to Demodectic Mange, so be careful about monthly steroid shots, as this suppresses the immune system.

Treatment can vary from dips, shots and spot on flea and tick treatments.

Several new options are available for use.
One new treatment is ProMeris flea and tick spot treatment. This is much easier and economical that traditional treatments. The research is still in the new phase, however, results so far are good with this product.

Treating this condition is not short term. You must be diligent in your efforts to cure this, as it may take up to a year to get a fully clear diagnosis.

If you suspect this disease on your pet, immediately take it to the vet for a work up. This disease does not go away on it's own, and sometimes can cause death to your beloved pet.

Please read the resources I have directed you to for this topic as there is more detailed info available.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A careful exam on your pet by yourself and a veterinarian
• Patience and time
• Money for treatment
• Good quality dog food
• Vitamins enriched with fatty acids
• Soothing, antiseptic shampoo
• Lots of love

1. 
    
   Not a skin allergy

   Carefully and completely examine your dog in a well lit room. Demodectic mange leaves the dog's skin red, smelly and hairless. Lesions (sores) may be present.
   Your dog may be lethargic and may not be eating.

2. 
    
   Mites are apparent

   Take your dog to their veterinarian. He/She will perform a skin scraping test for diagnosis. The mites can be viewed under a microscope.
   Discuss effective treatment options that are affordable and easy for you to do, and for your dog to be happy during this treatment.

3. 
    
   Good inside, good outside!

   Follow recommended treatment from the vet for the dog. Many products are available. The vet may also prescribe antibiotics for the skin infection that may accompany this disease.
   Relieve symptoms by ointments, baths, quality food and vitamins.
   Feed immune boosting foods and treats, along with multi vitamins.

Tips & Warnings

• This is a long process and will not be healed overnight. Give dog lots of attention and compassion.
• Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids help with the immune system and the dogs health.
• Keep dog inside as much as possible. The heat can retard the healing process, and make the dog miserable.
• Bathe dog with good shampoo.
• Purchase a good multi vitamin to help correct weak immune system.
• There are alot of ointments and holistic remedies available. Check with your vet first.
• Do not expose the dog to direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
• Take the dog to the vet immediately if symptoms do not start to improve within the month or dog shows other symptoms.
• This disease does not go away on it's own. Please take your pet to the veterinarian.

Resources

• doghealthguide.com