Introduction
There are several different species of parasitic mites that cause what is commonly referred to as “mange” in dogs. The classic canine mange is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites, which burrow into the deep layers of a dog’s skin and cause severe itching and allergic irritation. Called “scabies” or “sarcoptic mange,” this condition is highly contagious to other dogs, and to people as well.
If your pet is diagnosed with sarcoptic mange, you should follow the treatment plan prescribed by your veterinarian. A missed dose or an incomplete treatment protocol can lead to re-infestation. The dog’s environment should be treated as well. All animals that are in contact with an infected dog also must be treated, whether or not they show clinical signs of disease.
Treating Mange
Sarcoptic mange is best treated by medicated dips, shampoos and other prescription topical therapies. Oral medication is available as well. Medicated dips and other topical therapies must be administered regularly; it can take 4 to 6 weeks for the clinical signs of mange to resolve, even with regular treatment. Some breeds, especially Collies and Shelties, are intolerant to ivermectin, which is one of the medications often used to treat mange. These breeds need special attention to their treatment protocols. Sometimes, mange can involve secondary bacterial infections. In these cases, a veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and/or pain medication.
“Old-time” remedies to treat mange are ineffective and can actually exacerbate damage to the dog’s skin. Some of these so-called “remedies” include rubbing motor oil or vegetable oil into the dog’s skin, lightly applying gasoline onto the dog’s coat or repeatedly bathing the dog. None of these “remedies” even physically touch the mites, as they live deep beneath the surface of the skin. Motor oil and gasoline cause skin irritation, infection and can endanger a dog’s health; vegetable oil and repeated bathing can exacerbate skin irritation as well. If your dog suddenly starts scratching intensely, please make an appointment with your veterinarian rather than trying one of these ineffective “treatments.”