DiagnosisThe diagnosis of sarcoptic mange is based on three things:
Suggestive clinical signs. The rapid onset of pruritis and the rapid progression of lesions should suggest scabies.
Microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Mites are occasionally found on microscopic examination of skin scrapings, but failure to find the mite should not eliminate the diagnosis of scabies.
Response to treatment. Treatment for scabies improves the condition.
Treatment
Treatment should be carried out for the entire life cycle of the mite, which is 3 weeks. All animals in the household should be treated to reduce the possibility of re-infestation.
There are several ways to treat scabies.
You may be asked to bathe your animal weekly and use an anti-parasitic lime sulfur dip (LymDip).
An alternative treatment consists of the administration of the anti-parasitic drug ivermectin once every 2 weeks for 3 treatments. Some breeds (especially collies, shelties, and Australian shepherds) are extremely sensitive to the adverse effects of ivermectin.
Revolution, a topical product applied monthly for flea control and heartworm prevention, also is a safe and effective treatment for sarcoptic mange.
Treatment with antibiotics may be necessary if your dog has developed a secondary bacterial infection.
Regular cleaning, vacuuming and washing of bedding usually are sufficient to rid the household of the mites.
Home Care
At home you may be asked to bathe your animal weekly and use an anti-parasitic lime sulfur dip (LymDip). The dip preparation is very safe, but may damage jewelry and porcelain. It produces a yellow stain on the hair coat and skin due to its sulfur content. The sulfur content also imparts a strong odor of "rotten eggs." Gloves should be used when applying the dip.
Ideally, the dip should be applied outdoors and the animal not allowed back into the house until it is completely dry. This precaution will prevent staining of furniture and carpeting by the dip.
Mites do not survive for long in the environment. Regular cleaning, vacuuming and washing of bedding usually are sufficient to rid the household of the mites. Remember, mites can be transmitted to humans, so care must be taken when handling an infested dog.
Preventative Care
Prevention consists of avoiding contact with infected animals. Mites do not survive very long in the environment, and direct contact is necessary to become infected. All animals in the household should be treated to reduce the possibility of re-infestation.
Regular cleaning, vacuuming and washing of bedding usually are sufficient to rid the household of the mites.
