Sarcoptic Mange In Dogs

After writing about demodectic mange, caused by the demodex canis mite, it seems like a good idea to mention sarcoptic mange as well. Sarcoptic mange is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, and is different than demodectic mange. Sarcoptes scabiei

In demodectic mange it differs in that it's caused by a mite that normally lives on the skin, but starts to take over when your dog has an impaired immune system or is highly stressed. Sarcoptic mange caused by a different type of mite called Sarcoptes scabiei, can easily infect healthy dogs, causes fierce itching, and is contagious. This mite most commonly infects the ears, elbows, legs, and face initially, and if left untreated will spread out to other parts of the body. While it is true that this type of mite can infect humans, it does not live very well on humans, and will die on it's own within a few weeks.

Symptoms of sarcoptic mange in dogs are severe itching, oozing sores, crusty ears and elbows, hair loss, yellow crusts, and small red postules. Sarcoptic mange can sometimes be diagnosed with skin scrapings, or may be diagnosed based on symptoms alone. Topical treatments may include Frontline spray, lime-sulfur dips, or a variety of other parasiticidal treatments. In addition, other drugs like Ivermectin to kill mites, steroids to help stop the itching, and antibiotics to combat secondary infections may be used.

As a side note: I was on a forum where a dog owner stated to a veterinarian that she did not want to use prednisone for itching, because of the possible side effects. The veterinarian commented back that she might try Aveeno oatmeal rinse (normally used for people), as it does a good job in relieving itching in dogs as well.