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Authored by Augrad:
Here is how I've always handled mange:
There are two different types of mange: scarcoptic and demodex. They are both caused by mites.
Scarcoptic mange is the same thing as scabies. It's red and itchy, and highly contagious. Dogs scratch at it a lot, and frequently end up with secondary infections, making them really stinky as well. Treatment is ivermectin. I've always given it as two injections, one week apart, but I understand that it can be treated orally as well. So I guess this is the approach your vet is taking. Scarcoptic mange is difficult to diagnose because the mites are hard to see, even under the microscope - so vets are usually just going by the other symptoms to diagnose this. If it's scabies, it's easy to get rid of, but be sure you wash yourself frequently, because you can get it from him.
Demodex mange is different. All dogs have demodex mites all the time. Usually these don't bother the dog, unless the dog is ill, undernourished, or otherwise has a compromised immune system. Demodex does NOT itch, so the dog doesn't scratch and get the secondary infection. It is not contagious. Treatment is Mitoban dips (you can use diluted Tactic, but Mitoban is safer) - once a week for at least 6 weeks. It's much easier to diagnose, and easier on the dog altogether, but MUCH harder to get rid of.
Don't know if that helps, but that's what I know about mange.
Here is how I've always handled mange:
There are two different types of mange: scarcoptic and demodex. They are both caused by mites.
Scarcoptic mange is the same thing as scabies. It's red and itchy, and highly contagious. Dogs scratch at it a lot, and frequently end up with secondary infections, making them really stinky as well. Treatment is ivermectin. I've always given it as two injections, one week apart, but I understand that it can be treated orally as well. So I guess this is the approach your vet is taking. Scarcoptic mange is difficult to diagnose because the mites are hard to see, even under the microscope - so vets are usually just going by the other symptoms to diagnose this. If it's scabies, it's easy to get rid of, but be sure you wash yourself frequently, because you can get it from him.
Demodex mange is different. All dogs have demodex mites all the time. Usually these don't bother the dog, unless the dog is ill, undernourished, or otherwise has a compromised immune system. Demodex does NOT itch, so the dog doesn't scratch and get the secondary infection. It is not contagious. Treatment is Mitoban dips (you can use diluted Tactic, but Mitoban is safer) - once a week for at least 6 weeks. It's much easier to diagnose, and easier on the dog altogether, but MUCH harder to get rid of.
Don't know if that helps, but that's what I know about mange.