what is causing your dog to vomit?

Even though most pet owners know a little about mange, many have no idea about the details of this skin disease. While there are many different forms of mange, sarcoptic mange is actually considered to be one of the most common forms. For the health of your pooch, it is a good idea to get familiar with some of the basics about this worrisome disease. The best place to start is to get the facts. Take a look at some of the most common wrong assumptions about sarcoptic mange and the real facts you need to know. 

Assumption: Mange is more relative to the health of the dog than parasites. 

Fact: Sarcoptic mange is actually caused by a form of mite called the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which will burrow themselves down into your dog's skin where they are pretty much invisible to the naked eye. These nasty mites will cause a lot of discomfort for your pet, including symptoms like:

• intense itching, burning, and pain
• scaly red skin
• skin infections from scratching
• hair loss in localized areas or in patches across your pet's body

Even though it is often assumed that sarcoptic mange is a problem for unhealthy dogs, no dog is really immune to this parasite. 

Assumption: Sarcoptic mange can usually be cured with home remedies. 

Fact: Sarcoptic mange is not a condition that should be treated lightly. Even though there are some home remedies that will help with the symptoms of this skin disease, most are aimed at only providing some relief and not actually getting rid of the problem. It is better to talk to your veterinarian who can offer medications and scabicidal shampoo, which will kill the mites and their eggs. Treatment for this form of mange is not a once-and-done thing. You will likely have to make several trips to the vet, be persistent in and around yoru home about cleaning your dog's usual areas, and even deal with the skin disease for the long term. 

Assumption: Sarcoptic mange is not contagious. 

Fact: Most forms of canine mange are contagious, and sarcoptic mange is no different. In fact, this form of mange is considered to be highly contagious and most dogs contract the parasites through exposure to other animals with the same condition. Preventative measures must be taken in veterinary hospitals, dog boarding facilities, and kennels to prevent the spread of this disease. Sarcoptic mange is even capable of spreading to other animals, such as felines. 

For more information, contact companies like Parkview Animal Hospital.