We have probably all seen a dog afflicted with mange at some point in our lives. Mange is known as demodicosis in dogs. The demodex mite causes this itchy inflammatory disease and the identification of the particular mite can ascertain the harshness of the mange.

Cats as well as dogs can be affected with mange. Side effects can vary depending on the type of mite that inhabits your dog or cat's hair follicle. Mange can lead to genetic disorders, lesions and immune system problems.

There are two forms of Demodectic mange that can affect your pet. Localized will effect a specific area whereas generalized will be in many places over the entire body. Once the vet determines which type of demodectic mange your dog has, proper treatment will be determined.

If you see small patches of lesions around your dog's legs, face or trunk, then he probably has the milder form, which is localized mange. Generalized mange will appear over the whole body in the form of redness on the skin accompanied by the patches of lesions. Doctors will say that there is no known cause for mange; however, some feel that immune system problems can prompt this disease in your dog.

It is believed that one form of mite can be transferred from the mother to the baby via nursing. There are two other forms of mites and it is not yet known how those mites are transferred. Demodex canis gets into the hair follicle of the pet causing this transmission during nursing.

Testing is done either with a urine sample if you are able to get one or by scraping a piece of the dog's skin. The vet will want to rule out the possibility of your dog having an infected hair follicle. They can also determine the mite by plucking a few hairs.

Localized mange can be cured easily by itself over a period of time. The generalized mange can be more difficult to cure. Lime-sulphur dips and constant medication can relieve some of the symptoms. There are some cases that are more severe and you will need to weigh your options with the vet for the best solution for the dog.

Remember that if your dog is diagnosed with mange, you will need to continue to monitor the condition. If your pet requires treatment, you must continue to test skin scrapings for the presence of mites. As with generalized cases, medication must be administered regularly and continuously in order to control the spread of mange.

As with any chronic condition, it is suggested that you not breed a dog with chronic mange. Prevention may be as easy as maintaining the good health of your pet. Regular bathing, grooming and healthy diet can help prevent the onset of mange.

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Debbie Foster is the owner of Pet Beds Unlimited and an avid animal lover. You’ll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers, small dog beds, large dog beds, pet strollers and more at http://petbedsunlimited.com.