What is mange in dogs?
Mange in dogs is a disease that occurs on the animal's skin and is caused by a mite.
Different types of mange can be identified based on their source, which will inform the appropriate treatment for each case.
- Sarcoptic mange is the most common form of mange, and it is spread from an infected dog to a non-infected dog, as well as being transmissible to humans.
- Orthodectic mange, a mange that is found only on the ears of both dogs and cats, is spread by contact with an animal that is already infected.
- Demodectic mange is a hereditary condition, meaning that a mother who has it can pass it on to their offspring.
What are the symptoms of canine mange?
The signs that indicate that a dog has mange are varied. Among the most common are:
- Lack of hair on the affected areas of the dog that has been infected with the disease.
- Inflammation of the infected area.
- Redness of the area.
- Your dog will scratch desperately.
- The dog may also begin to emit an unpleasant smell caused by mange.
How is mange in dogs treated?
As previously noted, mange in dogs necessitates the involvement of a veterinary professional. Through conducting the necessary tests, they will be able to confirm the presence of this disease.
Based on this, he will determine the best treatment plan for the individual, which typically includes oral or topical medications.
In addition, it is usually advisable to provide anti-inflammatory or analgesics on certain occasions, but this will be determined by the veterinarian. Remember not to self-medicate pets on your own.
On the other hand, the use of certain shampoos and powders can also alleviate the itching of the animal.
In addition to this, you may want to consider using home remedies for mange in dogs to complement the veterinarian's prescription.
Home remedies for mange in dogs
Let's take a look at some of the most natural remedies with which you can treat this skin disease in pets.
Natural herbs
Traditional medicine has many herbs and plants that can be very effective in treating mange in dogs.
Two of the most beneficial are Niaouli and Neem, which have antiseptic, antibacterial, and regenerative properties.
You can select one of these oils and mix it with either olive or almond oil, then apply a few drops to your canine's affected skin area.
Vegetable oils
Vegetable oils can be used to combat the mites that cause the disease.
It is best to avoid using avocado oil on your dog, since it is toxic for animals. Olive oil is the most suitable oil to use for your dog instead.
Olive oil can be used as one of the natural treatments for dog mange. A few drops of olive oil can be applied to the affected areas to weaken the mite colonies.
Furthermore, your canine's skin will become hydrated and the infection-induced dryness will be alleviated simultaneously.
pH Neutral soap
If you can find a soap with a neutral pH, don't hesitate to use it to bathe your pet - this is what your veterinarian will recommend.
To clean the affected areas, just wet them with lukewarm water and use a bar of soap to lightly scrub the area. Do not use a brush to scrub and make sure to rinse off the soap residue before drying.
Take care of your dog's diet
Having a strong and healthy immune system is essential for your dog to be able to fight off any disease, including mange.
You should definitely make sure to provide him with enough food in the right amounts, as having a weakened immune system will slow down his recovery process.
Aloe vera, another home remedy for mange in dogs
This plant also has anti-inflammatory, regenerative, and antiseptic properties, making it one of the best home remedies for mange in dogs.
Take a plant and peel off the outer layer to reveal the thick inner part. Rub this directly onto the skin of your pet, which will help suffocate the mites and nourish the skin with its natural properties.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is one of the best natural remedies for mange in dogs.
Its acidic properties provide a disinfectant action, helping combat mites when diluted and applied to the skin.
For this purpose, simply add one or two tablespoons of the vinegar to the dog's bath water (you will have to use a basin for this purpose). You can also prepare a solution of water and vinegar and add it to a spray bottle to spray the affected skin areas.
You should always visit your pet's veterinarian before attempting to treat mange in dogs with home remedies, as these natural aids alone may not be enough to effectively combat it. Fortunately, these remedies are quite affordable.