Ask Dr. Nāone Articles
Mange
Most, if not all, dogs have mites (Demodex canis) on their bodies, but when the immune system is compromised or if they have spent time on the streets without consistent access to food, they can grow in numbers and overpopulate causing symptoms.
Demodectic mange is caused by that mite called Demodex canis, which again, is found naturally on most dogs. However, in some cases, these mites can overpopulate and cause skin irritation and hair loss. This type of mange is not contagious and is not usually a serious condition. You can use K-9 SkinRescue for 14-21 days once a day. Rub the ointment all the way down and into the skin for the best results. This will control the mite population and bring relief to the symptoms.
Sarcoptic mange, also known as canine scabies, is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite and is highly contagious. It can be transmitted from dog to dog or from other animals, such as foxes, and can even be transmitted to humans. In this situation the Scarcoptes scabiei burrow not just into the hair follicle, but under the skin as well. Which makes it harder to treat. Symptoms include intense itching, hair loss, and skin inflammation. Often, a secondary infection can occur as a result of all the scratching. You should use K-9 SkinRescue for 14-21 days to overcome any potential for secondary infection because it is anti-bacterial and anti-microbial, however, because the scabies burrow down under the skin, the K-9 SkinRescue can’t reach the scabies under the skin so you will need to seek veterinary assistance. If it were my dog, I would always try K-9 SkinRescue first, one because it helps relieve the symptoms and avoid secondary infection which can become serious but two, it is a more economical option to a Vet visit and scraping in case it just happens to be Demodex. If after 14 days your dog is still scratching incessantly, then it would be best to get a skin scraping at the Vet to positively identify the Sarcoptic mange and treat it specifically. Still, K-9 SkinRescue is a great option for surface symptoms even if it is Sarcoptic mange and needs a pharmaceutical. It will not interfere with the Sarcoptic treatment and will ensure that you won’t be prescribed additional antibiotics for a secondary infection that developed as a result of scratching.
It can be difficult to tell the difference between Demodectic and Sarcoptic mange based on the appearance of the symptoms alone. However, there are some differences in the way the two types of mange affect dogs that can help with identification.
Demodectic mange typically causes patchy hair loss on a dog’s face, around the eyes, mouth, and ears, and can also affect the paws and legs. The skin may appear red, scaly, or crusty, and there may be some mild itching or skin irritation. Demodectic mange is not usually as itchy or painful as Sarcoptic mange, and affected dogs generally do not experience intense discomfort.
Sarcoptic mange, on the other hand, causes intense itching and scratching. The symptoms usually start around the ears and elbows and then spread to other parts of the body. Dogs with Sarcoptic mange may develop crusty, scaly, or reddened skin, and may have patches of hair loss or develop secondary skin infections. Affected dogs may also lose weight and become lethargic due to the intense itching and discomfort.
There are a variety of prescriptions and treatments that are often turned to because they are all that has been available until now and because people are comfortable prescribing what they are familiar with. In a later article, I will cover all the common treatment options out there as best as I can and talk about the pros and cons.
We just launched in August of 2022 so K-9 SkinRescue is still relatively unknown, but I believe people are looking for something that works, doesn’t have chemicals, parabens, etc., is cost-effective and is all-natural. As more and more people start to use it, talk about it and post reviews, I am confident that K-9 SkinRescue will become the number one go to for not just mange but also fungal issues and for wounds and as a general first aid topical.
This is the opinion of the author, C. Kanoelani Naone, Ph.D., based on research and experience. If you aren’t comfortable with this information or need additional information or services, please consult your local Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)