Scabies is one of the most serious problems a dog can have throughout its life. It is an infection that has several types and occurs for many reasons. One of them is otodectic mange, a type of the disease that affects the ear of dogs. Caused by specific mites, this problem causes a lot of discomfort and is also contagious. To learn more about this type of dog scabies, what is the best way to prevent it, what is the best way to prevent it?treatment and how to prevent it, we talked to dermatologist veterinarian Juliana Ferreiro Vieira, from São Paulo. check it out!

Otodectic mange: what is it and how does it spread?

"Otodectic mange, also known as ear mange, is a disease caused by the infestation of animals' ears by a mite called Otodectes cynotis," explains Juliana. She adds that these parasites are white in color and larger in size than the usual mites. Therefore, they can sometimes be seen with the naked eye.

Contagion occurs from the contact of a sick animal with a healthy one. Dogs living on the streets can contract the disease more easily, as they do not have access to adequate medical treatment and do not receive constant care with medications to control fleas, ticks and the mite itself.

What are the most common symptoms of otodectic mange?

Otodectic mange affects the dog's ear and the ear. The most common symptoms are itching, excess reddish or brown wax, sores and bad smell. The dog may also shake his ear more often and have discomfort or pain in the area. The problem can often be mistaken for otitis, but in the case of otodectic mange, earwax appears with a reddish or brownish color.even higher concentration (see photos below) .

Canine ear scabies: what tests are needed for diagnosis?

When you notice these symptoms in your dog's ear, do not hesitate to seek help from a veterinarian. It is important not to try to clean the place yourself or use homemade solutions, as this can aggravate the condition. "To diagnose this scabies, the veterinarian performs an examination in the animal's ear with a device called an otoscope, which allows you to see the parasites. And also an examparasitology under the microscope using the secretion from the patient's ear", says the veterinarian.

Otodectic mange: treatment can last up to 1 month

To eliminate otodectic mange, the veterinarian will evaluate the infection to determine if it is necessary to enter with some specific remedy. The treatment can be done through the use of parasiticidal drugs, injectable or oral medications and even with products to apply directly to the ears. According to the veterinarian, this treatment can last an average of one month. After treatment, theThe animal is cured, but can contract the disease again if it has contact with another infected animal. Therefore, if you have a sick dog at home, you should not mix it with the healthy dog, as otodectic mange is a contact-transmitted disease.

How to prevent otodectic mange?

The main way to prevent otodectic mange is with the use of medication to prevent fleas, ticks and mites. It is also worth investing in a flea collar, which repels any attempt by these mites to come into contact with the hair and skin of the dogs. "Greater care is needed in contact with other animals, especially those who do not receive veterinary assistance",Ah, always remember: if your pet shows any changes in the ears, seek a veterinarian.