subject: Scabies Can Happen To Dogs and Foxes Too [print this page] Scabies Can Happen To Dogs and Foxes Too Scabies Can Happen To Dogs and Foxes Too
Scabies is the term, commonly used to refer to Sarcoptic mange or Sarcoptic mite. These mites are tiny ecto-parasites which burrow between the skin folds and lay eggs under the fox's skin. The larvae would hatch, feed on the cells and repeat the entire process all over again. Scabies causes itching, inflammation, loss of hair along with scabs, dry lesions and crusts on the surface of skin. With time, it has been observed that Sarcoptic mange would weaken the immune system of the fox, which would lead to further infections or infestations by internal parasites. The fox may perhaps starve to death in some instances.
Unfortunately, Sarcoptic mange in foxes is often mistaken for the presence of scabies. Some of the following symptoms are to be seen in foxes including wounds or open sores, a bare tail, appear thin, crusty film near the eyes, malnourished, stiff and would be seen looking for food all the time.
As far as scabies in dogs is concerned, doctors often use injectable ivermectin that has been traditionally used to treat hogs and cattle. The approximate dosage to treat skin parasites is about 2-3 times the dosage prescribed for heartworm prevention. Regardless of the treatment you choose, you would have to repeat it at least twice or thrice, so as to clear off the chances of a re-infestation. On the other hand, all those medicines that you use in dogs, to free those from scabies could be used for foxes as well. Most people would prefer to mix these medications with their food itself, so that it becomes convenient for the animal.
