Hunting dogs are an integral part of our culture and tradition. Owners of hunting dogs are concerned about the health and well-being of their pets, as well as the efficiency of their hunting activities.
A common condition that hunting dog owners must prevent and treat is the diseases they face and in particular mange, also known as scabies. Scabies is a skin disease transmitted through direct contact with other infected animals. The condition can also be transmitted from humans to dogs, or vice versa. For owners of hunting dogs, this information is essential to keep their dogs healthy and happy.
WHAT IS MANGE?
Scabies is an infectious disease transmitted by mites. These microscopic parasites feed on the skin of living organisms, creating red, scaly lesions on the affected area. The scabies mite multiplies rapidly on the skin of animals, resulting in intense itching, which can even interfere with the hunting process.
SYMPTOMS OF MANGE
The symptoms of mange in hunting dogs are very similar to the symptoms seen in other animals. Humans may also have areas on the skin. The most common signs to look out for include:
- Inflammation and redness of the skin. This is usually the first sign that the dog is suffering from mange. The inflammation can be located on the ears, elbows, tarsi, as well as on the abdomen.
- Intense itching and burning. This symptom is the one that worries owners the most, as it prevents them from concentrating on the hunt. Many affected dogs take their attention away from the prey by experiencing the incessant itching in the affected area.
- Alopecia. When mites feed on the skin, the coat in the affected area may begin to shed excessively. This also leads to scaling, which is aggravated by the dog scratching the area.
- Papules. These pimples are one of the most common symptoms of mange, occurring most commonly on the ears and elbows.
- Scabs. These yellowish plaques are also signs of the presence of mites in the skin of hunting dogs.
SCABIES TREATMENTS
The recommended treatment for mange is acaricides, which should be marketed by a veterinary professional. These substances contain chemical compounds that attack the mites, eliminating them from the dog’s skin. Acaricides can be applied directly to the dog’s body or administered orally. Re-application of acaricides after a certain period of time is also necessary for optimal results.
Also the less aggressive permethrin, which is a skin cream that kills scabies mites and their eggs.
If the dog is suffering from mange that has spread to other parts of the body, it is important that the owner disinfects his traps with specialised products. These products prevent the mites from spreading on and around the dog’s coat.
HOME CARE
In addition to following the treatment prescribed by the professional, owners of hunting dogs should consider some home care that can help to improve the condition of a dog with mange. The following tips are essential in these situations.
- Give the dog extra grooming. This means bathing him more frequently, to remove mite debris from the surface of his skin.
- Change your pet’s bedding and rugs more regularly. This helps to reduce the chances of re-infection.
- Offer the dog another common place to rest. If a specific place has been affected by the disease, it is preferable to change it to another place free of mites.
- Make sure the animal has sufficient access to fresh water. This helps to keep the dog’s skin hydrated, preventing the mites from feeding more quickly.
CONCLUSION
Scabies can become an unpleasant condition in hunting dogs if not treated properly. To remove the mites from the affected area, owners of hunting dogs should make use of acaricides recommended by veterinarians, as well as follow a series of home care measures to prevent the increase and spread of the disease. While providing the best possible care is necessary, dog owners should remember the importance of hygiene in their homes, as this will also help to keep their pets healthy and happy.
