My dog has Demodectic Mange! How can I get rid of it?

Question

I've got a dog who is about 6 years old and my vet says she has mange! She gave us medicine and pills, and they don't seem to be helping! Please help me!

Answer 1

It can take awhile to get rid of demodectic mange, because it's caused by a mite that's commonly on the dog's skin anyway. It only turns into demodectic mange because of a weak immune system, or is inherited from the dog's parents.
There are some things you can do to help: Use an anti itch shampoo or one with soothing oatmeal. Feed the dog a high quality pet store brand dog food, such as Nutro Natural Choice, or Wellness brand. It might help to add immune supporting supplements to the dog's diet.
If you are not happy with the treatment supplied by your vet, there's nothing wrong with seeking another vet's opinion. When my dog had sarcoptic mange, the first vet's treatment didn't work, but the second vet's treatment worked wonderfully.
Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Demodex Mange can be very easily taken care of. The medication to treat this is called Mitaban. It is a dip that is applied at 2 week intervals. Its best to place the dog in the medication (in a tub), rather than sponge it on. It may make the animal sleepy though. Another treatment (if your dog is not a Collie breed) is Ivermectin which is a medication in Heartgard. Many vets choose to treat the animals itching by giving them a coritzone injection. This acts as an aphrodeziac for the Mange mites and they will breed furiously. Good luck!

Answer 3

Demodicosis or "red mange" is caused by a mite called "Demodex canis."

Most dogs harbor a few of these mites as part of their normal skin flora (normal bacteria). The immune system is important in minimizing numbers of mites. Dogs with defective immune systems, from either hereditary immune defects or from other diseases or drugs that impair the function of the immune system, may develop this mange.

It is not contagious but can be fatal without treatment. The treatment includes topical or oral acaricides (gets rid of an infestation of mites) plus antibiotics for secondary skin infections. Treatments must often be continued for several months.

Continuing with these treatments is crucial in order to purge and kill all the larvae and shedding organisms in your dog's system.

Answer 4

Mites and Manges
Mange is caused by another type of external parasite--the mite. Fortunately, mange is rare in the well-fed, well-kept cat.

In dogs, two types of mange are the most common: DEMODECTIC mange or "red mange," and SARCOPTIC mange or "scabies." They may be present at any time of the year.

Dogs suffering from demodectic mange usually do not scratch. This mange is most common in young short-haired animals and is marked in the early stages by small areas of hairlessness, accompanied by a red, irritated appearance. In sarcoptic mange, a severe itching is usually observed, with consequent skin irritation and loss of hair. This type of mange is contagious to people as well as to other dogs and therefore should be checked as soon as possible.

It should be remembered that mange is more serious than a simple skin irritation or abrasion or a source of discomfort to your dog--though it certainly is that. Both of these manges are serious skin diseases that can lead to complications such as severe skin infections. Veterinarians usually treat mange by clipping, medicated baths or sprays, as well as oral medication or injections.
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Conventional treatment depends upon the severity of the disease. Generally, veterinarians recommend treatment with a dip containing Amitraz. The dip is repeated every 7-10 days. Although the dog may respond well to the dip and look normal, dipping must be continued until negative skin scrapings are found consistently for a few weeks. The dipping may have side effects. Sleepiness and itching are common for 24 hours after the dip. Some dogs many experience decreased body temperature, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, excitability, staggering, or other personality changes. If any of these side effects occur you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

Answer 5

Demodectic mange is very difficult to get rid of and can take weeks and weeks of treatment before you see improvement. These dogs usually have an underlying immune system deficiency or have inherited it from their parents (usually puppy mill or BYB stock that should never have been bred). Unfortunately some can never be "cured", and can only be "controlled" with lots of time and effort on your part. Good luck, and be patient.

Answer 6

Yeah it's possible

Answer 7

it takes time. please continue to follow your vets advice and call the office if you have questions or concerns. you might also mention to them that you would feel better if you could help with the treatment...maybe shampooing with something special at home etc. Please also check with them about how you should be cleaning blankets etc at your home. good luck

Answer 8

It depends..