Monday, March 29, 2010

Learn About Mange Treatments And Mange Medicines

By Wendell Ruben

Nothing is as irritating and as uncomfortable for a dog as having mange. The pain and itching caused by this condition can drive him crazy and he will do whatever he can to relieve it, including scratching and chewing his skin until it becomes raw. This animal needs help and it would help you to learn how about mange treatments and mange medicines.

Mange is a condition brought about by parasitic mites invading the skin or hair follicles of an unsuspecting host. There are several types of mange, each caused by a different type of mite infecting a victim. Most of these mites are microscopically small and can only be seen through a microscope or magnifying glass. But small or not, they can still be responsible for a huge amount of damage.

Demodectic Mange, also called Red Mange, is fairly common among domestic animals, particularly dogs. It is caused by an over-population of Demodex canis mites on the dogs fur. This is a mite that naturally occurs in small numbers on a dog's hair follicles, but are normally kept under control by a well-working immune system. Puppies are most susceptible to this type of mange, as well as older dogs who have a compromised immune system.

This condition will not affect most dogs because they're able to ward off the parasites. For those who do succumb, symptoms will include lots of itching and scratching. Hair loss will occur to different degrees, from small patches to whole body fallout, depending on the severity.

If a puppy contracts Demodectec Mange that appears localized it is considered minor, as just a common puppy problem. In a great many cases the condition will heal itself without the need for treatment. The condition may be treated with medicated shampoos to help bring relief but stronger agents meant to actually kill the mites will usually not be recommended for puppies.

If an adult dogs suffers from mange symptoms for any period of time it can bring others problems. The dog may be so aggressive in trying to relieve the itch he may literally rub or chew his skin raw. This may foster secondary infections that will require the use of antibiotics to heal. Plus, something will have to be applied to cure the remaining mange symptoms, to prevent further infection.

There are various ways to treat mange, depending on the variety and the severity. Not too long ago, a popular folk remedy was to dip the dog in a barrel of used engine oil. It's not clear whether or not this method works as a cure, but it's certain to be messy!

Amitraz is the name of a rinse that has become widely used as a means of killing off the mites doing the damage. Some different ointments and creams are sold by vets and pet stores to help relieve mange symptoms. There are also oral medications that can be prescribed to attack the problem from the inside, but these carry warnings about possible side effects. And, as mentioned, there are home remedies available, some of which are reported to give good results. Whichever treatment method seems best to you, your dog will thank you for trying to help and for taking the time to learn about mange treatments and mange medicines.

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