La scabies it is a skin disease that affects a good number of animal species, such as dogs. It can be caused by various types of mites, which are generally spread by contact with other animals or infected items. If not treated properly, it can have serious consequences.
Types of scabies
Depending on the mites causing the infection, a certain type of scabies occurs. The list is long, although this time we are going to limit ourselves to talking about the three most common classes:
- Sarcoptic mange. Also known as scabies common, is produced by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei and it is the most common in dogs. It is spread through contact with other animals or infected objects, causing severe itching of the dog's skin, as well as redness, inflammation and alopecia. It can be spread to humans. Fortunately, it is curable.
- Demodectic mange. Commonly known as red scabies, it is produced by the mite demodex canis. This parasite permanently inhabits the dog's hair follicles and occurs indiscriminately when the dog is under defense or lives in unsanitary conditions. In this case, this type of scabies occurs, which mainly affects the face, although it can spread throughout the rest of the body. It does not spread through contact, so everyone who lives with the animal is out of danger.
- Otodectic scabies. It is caused by the mite Otodectes Cynotis, which attacks both dogs and cats and spreads through the ear area, causing severe otitis. It is transmitted by contact with other infected animals, causing redness, intense itching, irritation and inflammation.
Symptom
In these three cases, the symptoms are similar. Among the most common we find:
- Itching
- Redness.
- Localized alopecia.
- Rashes, scales and sores.
- Bad smell.
- Loss of appetite
- Apathy.
- General weakening and, in extreme cases, death.
Transmission
If we notice the slightest sign of scabies in our dog, we must go to the vet immediately. He will know how to administer the appropriate treatment, taking into account the type of scabies and the general characteristics of the dog (breed, age, diseases, etc.). Oral, injectable, or topical miticides are usually prescribed, containing ivermectin, selamectin, moxidectin, or milbemycin oxime among their components.
In addition, it is likely that we will have to use special shampoos or powders to bathe the animal, as well as analgesics and inflammations. On the other hand, in case of ear scabies, a special medicine will be administered for the ears. Either way, we have to be consistent and adhere to the full treatment.
Prevention
We can take some preventive measures to avoid this problem:
- Good hygiene. Daily brushing, as well as a bath every month and a half or two months, are one of the great keys to preventing skin diseases. It is also essential to keep your environment clean.
- Avoid contact with infected animals or items. At the slightest suspicion of scabies in any animal, it will be better that we do not allow our dog to approach. In the same way, you have to flee from the objects that said animal has been able to infect: drinking bowls, collars, blankets, etc.
- Adequate food. If our dog keeps his defenses in good condition, we will greatly reduce his chances of suffering from demodectic mange.
- Vaccination schedule. Keeping our pet's vaccination schedule up to date, as well as frequent check-ups and deworming, are essential to prevent scabies.