Mange Symptoms Dogs | Mange Symptoms Canines

Because all dogs scratch it is important to be aware of more than the occasional itch. Canine’s that go into scratching “fits” should be checked for cause. Fleas are a common reason for excessive scratching but the careful owner should never assume it is the sole cause and must take steps to inspect the fur and skin of their pets.

Some tell tale signs if your pet is suffering from mites and canine mange:

• Intense pruritus (itchiness) with self-trauma – scratching, biting
• Hair loss
• Papules
• Crusts
• Lacerations on the surface of the skin
• Additional bacterial infections
• Thickening of the skin (in chronic cases)
• Location of skin lesions is widespread and can be found on the abdomen, chest, ears and legs – especially the elbows and hocks.
• Rapid weight loss
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• General debilitation

The first indication to mange may be simple scales and flakes that are generated by the mites that cause the itching. If caught at an early stage, could stop your pet from suffering from hair loss and infection. If the animal has noticeable “dandruff” or “snow”, take a closer look to see if the stuff is moving. Regular dandruff will stay in one place until shaken off, but mites that produce white scales, move along the skin causing tremendous discomfort.

Once the mite departs their furry host, the pests die and the condition can subside. However during its course redness and infection can occur due to your dog’s scratching to rid itself of the irritation. Often times the skin becomes sore with a crusty texture and some oozing caused by the mites clogging the hair follicles. Once these pests begin to burrow in and the production of yellowish or green discharge is apparent, this will also be accompanied by a foul smell. Many times if the dog spends most of its time outside of the home, the odor may be the first signal that something is wrong.

The areas most affected by mites tend to be the ears, neck, hind quarters and feet. Infestation of parasites cause the pet to viscously attack the bite sites which will in turn create greater infections from the lacerations becoming clogged with dirt and insect droppings. Although the condition may dissipate once the mites leave, infestations require immediate treatment and severe situation can usually mean costly trips to the vet.

If your poor pet gets scabies they will dig, scratch and bite themselves mercilessly. When oozing sores and infections set in your vet will require bouts of antibiotics along with treatments to get rid of the mites. Costs by the vet for these treatments vary but tend to be expensive.