The bond between a dog and its owner is incredibly strong, especially during difficult times like when the dog is suffering from a disease like mange. Mange is an inflammatory skin disease caused by mites and can be very uncomfortable for dogs.
When a pet parent realizes their beloved dog might have mange, it brings about feelings of helplessness and worries.
Taking the proper steps to treat mange can help ease the stress and ease the owner’s mind. But how much does it cost to treat mange in dogs?
The cost of treatments for dog mange depends on the severity and type of mange. Mild cases may require topical or antibiotics, while more severe cases may require injectable medications. Generally, its cost falls within the range of $250-$500.
Note: Mange can be difficult to treat, so it’s important to identify the type of mite and begin treatment as soon as possible.
What Is Mange in Dogs?
Mange is a skin condition in dogs caused by parasitic mites. Depending on the type of mange, the mites can affect the skin, hair follicles, or sebaceous glands of a dog’s body. It is an uncomfortable and often itchy condition that can lead to severe hair loss, scabbing, and skin lesions.
Types of Mange in Dogs
Dogs have two main types of mange: sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, and demodectic mange. Let’s discuss both of them.
1 – Sarcoptic Mange
Sarcoptic mange is an extremely uncomfortable skin condition caused by the overgrowth of sarcoptic mites. These mites differ from Demodex mites, which live in the hair follicles and feed on skin oils as they burrow deep into the skin. This type of mange is highly contagious among animals and can even be transmitted to humans.
2 – Demodectic Mange
Demodectic mange in dogs is caused by an overgrowth of Demodex mites that live naturally on the skin of most dogs. These mites are typically harmless and do not cause any disease, but when an overabundance of mites accumulates, it can lead to demodicosis.
The exact reason for this abnormal mite growth is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to hormonal imbalances in the dog’s body or an impaired immune system.
Causes of Mange in Dogs
Mange in dogs is caused by microscopic mites that feed on the skin, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands.
- These mites can be transmitted directly between animals through close contact or indirectly through contaminated bedding, grooming tools, or other objects that come into contact with an infected animal’s skin.
- Mange can also be caused by an underlying health condition such as allergies or a weakened immune system.
Symptoms of Mange in Dogs
The symptoms of mange vary depending on the type and severity of the infection.
- In general, signs may include intense itching, redness and irritation, hair loss, scabs and crusts on the skin, and thickening of the skin.
- In more serious cases, dogs may also experience secondary infections due to scratching or licking at the affected areas.
Treatment of Mange in Dogs and Its Cost
The treatment of mange in dogs may depend on the type and severity of the infestation.
- In most cases, topical medications, such as shampoos, dips, sprays, or ointments, are used to reduce the number of mites and help control itching.
- In some cases, oral medications/injections may also be prescribed to treat more serious infections.
Cost of Treatment for Mange in Dogs
The cost of treatment for mange in dogs can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection and other factors such as the type and dosage of medications prescribed. Generally, mange treatment may cost anywhere from $250-$500.
How To Prevent Mange in Dogs
In order to prevent the spread of mange in dogs, it is important to practice good hygiene and follow all instructions from your veterinarian.
- Avoid coming into contact with any animal that may have mange, or keep your pet away from such animals if possible.
- Regularly cleaning bedding and grooming tools can help reduce the risk of transmission.
- It is recommended to follow a regular flea and mite prevention program for all pets in the household.
- In addition to these measures, regular veterinary check-ups can help identify any potential signs of mange early, before the condition becomes more severe.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Mange Treatment
Factors affecting the cost of mange treatment may include:
- The type of preventive care used.
- The frequency and duration of treatment.
- Any additional tests or treatment required.
- Type of medication prescribed.
- The severity of the mange infection.
- The overall health of the pet.
- The geographical location of your veterinarian.
Final Thoughts
Mange is a skin condition in dogs caused by microscopic mites that feed on the skin, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands. It can cause intense itching, redness and irritation, hair loss, scabs and crusts on the skin, and thickening of the skin.
The cost of treatment range from $250-$500. Preventing mange with good hygiene and flea/mite prevention can help keep your pet’s skin healthy.
