By R.D. Hawkins
exists peacefully with dogs, with their place of residence being the hair follicles on the skin. Most dog owners will never know these mites exist and that their beloved pet is only one faithful moment away from developing canine demodicosis, commonly referred to as mange, unexpectedly. The existence of Demodex mites can be confirmed through biopsies or skin scrapings. The peaceful co-existence between mite and dog can take a sinister turn for the worst when the Demodex population multiplies too fast, resulting in a condition called canine demodicosis, or demodectic manage. There is little good news that goes along with this condition, with perhaps the most positive being that it is not contagious. Demodectic manage can be localized (occurring in one area), or generalized (covering the dogs entire body). The milder localized variety is by far the most common. That said, few would argue that generalized canine demodicosis is a terrible condition, and a truly heartbreaking site to see. Dogs with demodicosis often have patchy hair loss and scaly red skin, particularly around the face, eyes, corners of the mouth, and on the front of the legs. When canine demodicosis affects the entire body, the signs are usually more severe, with the skin becoming thicker and darker due to the chronic inflammation which is taking place. Age does play a role with very young dogs being more susceptible to the condition, but the truth of the matter is that all dogs are susceptible given the right set of circumstances. Generalized canine demodicosis in puppies is thought to be hereditary and your veterinarian will likely suggest that your pet be spayed or neutered to avoid passing on this genetic trait. Milder cases often disappear without treatment, though an ointment or homeopathic topical formula may be helpful in eliminating the mites, discouraging re-infestation, and speeding the healing process. Dogs with the widespread variety must be dipped in a miticide (a solution that kills mites) once or twice a week until the mite population has been eradicated. There are also natural mite killing solutions available for those pets unable to tolerate these harsh pesticides. Dogs with long or heavy coats may need to be trimmed, or even sheered, so that the mite killing solution can work more effectively. Once the mites are gone there is a better than average chance your dog will be left with a bacterial skin infection that must be treated. Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat the infection. Whirlpool soaks and frequent baths with a shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide may also prove beneficial. Honestly, there are no easy answers for the generalized variety of canine demodicosis. This is especially true for older dogs who tend not to heal as fast and whose immune systems may be challenged. Additionally, the harsh chemicals used in the miticide dips may irritate the dogs skin causing a great deal of discomfort and opening the door even wider for bacterial infection.
Natural herbal ingredients can be used as a safe and effective alternative to the harsh chemicals present in so many conventional treatments for canine mange. A commonly used herb for mange is Garlic which has become renowned for its natural repellent and antibacterial properties. Another beneficial herbal ingredient that can be used when treating pets for canine demodicosis is Wormwood. This natural pesticide has been used for centuries as a natural parasite repellent and is frequently used to rid pets of mange, worms and ear mites. Neem and Lemongrass also act as natural insecticides and their natural skin healing properties help to soothe irritated skin and promote healing. Lastly, the herbal ingredient Niaoli works as an antiseptic, and helps to cleanse and heal the skin. It also works as an excellent tissue stimulant and can be given to pets to help the skin heal and re-build after a mange infestation. Helpful Natural Remedies for Canine Demodicosis
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