When it comes to scabies, dogs can be easily infected with this skin disorder. Scabies is caused by a mite known as the sarcoptes scabiei, and the condition may also be referred to as mange. If your dog becomes infected with scabies, the mites will burrow into the skin and create scaly lines and patches on the skin's surface. Because the condition is extremely contagious, it is very easy for dogs to spread the disease.
Symptoms of Scabies
Common signs and symptoms of scabies in dogs may include the following:
- Excessive scratching
- Biting the skin
- Skin rashes
- Bumps on the skin
- Crusty patches or lines on the skin
- Hair loss
Diagnosing Scabies in Your Dog
Scabies is usually very easy to identify because of the obvious skin rashes and itching the disorder produces. Even so, if you suspect your dog has scabies or any other skin condition, a veterinarian will need to be contacted in order to make a complete diagnoses. A veterinarian will likely diagnose scabies after performing the following tests or procedures:
- Complete examination of the top layer of skin on the affected area
- Taking skin samples and examining them under a microscope to reveal mites or eggs
There is the rare occasion that a microscopic test may produce negative results, even if a dog has mites present on the skin's surface. If this is the case, a veterinarian will take into consideration the symptoms and signs the dog is showing in order to diagnose the condition.
Treating Scabies in Dogs
Scabies is a highly contagious skin disorder, but luckily, it is also easily treatable. The most common form of treatment for scabies in dogs is the use of medicated shampoos. In order for the medicated shampoo treatment to be effective, the dog must be kept bathed regularly to remove all debris and dirt on the skin. A topical antiseptic ointment is also a common treatment for scabies, and is effective when applied directly to skin lesions and rashes on the skin.
Another treatment option for scabies includes a lime sulfur dip, which is used as a rinse to kill mites. This treatment can be used once weekly, but produces a very harsh odor when applied, similar to rotten eggs. Amitraz is a chemical very similar to the lime sulfur dip, and can be applied twice monthly a rinse. Selamectin is a medicine that can be applied once a month to the affected areas of the body, and is similar to Amitraz. Of all of the treatments available for scabies in dogs, Ivermectin is the most preferred. This medicine can be given through injections or can be taken orally.
Excessive scratching of the infected areas can result in secondary skin conditions on occasion. If your dog is itching excessively, an antibiotic may be needed to calm the irritation caused by the skin rashes and bumps.