Mange

There are two types of mange...Sarcoptic and Demodectic. Sarcoptic is very treatable and Demodectic is genetic or an immune deficiency which is difficult to treat. It is important to see a vet to determine which type of mange your dog carries. Sarcoptic mange is usually treated externally while Demodectic mange is usually treated both externally and internally. These two types of mange are caused by two different mites. It is important to note that all dogs and most animals carry these mange mites. An explosion in numbers of the mites is what causes the reaction.

Symptoms include severe itching, hair loss, bleeding and cracked skin. Over time the skin will often look "toughened" due to the constant inflammation.

Sarcoptic mange is easily treated once it has been diagnosed by a vet. Generally treatment includes several rounds of dips to ensure all mites have been killed within their life cycle. If you do only one dip, you miss the hatching eggs and the cycle repeats itself. Be sure to follow a complete treatment schedule.

Demodectic mange can be inherited or caused by an immune system problem generally seen in puppies. 50% of puppies with demodex mange grow out of the problem by the time their immune system matures around six months to a year old. Until that time, they still need treatment to control the severe skin reactions. The other 50% need lifetime treatment. A dog with a normal immune system is able to control the numbers of demodex mites, however, if the immune system is compromised, then the mites have an explosion and create severe skin reactions. Treatment usually includes dips and drugs such as Ivermectin or Interceptor as prescribed by your vet.

See website below for more info on mange:

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2101&aid=729