First there are two basic kinds of mange. One is called sarcoptic mange
is by far the most common. It usually causes a lot of alopecia (hair
loss) and is usually very pruritic (means the dog itches) also. The other
kind of mange is called red mange or demodectic mange and is less common.
It is caused by a mite called demodex canis which can be a normal skin
inhabitant of all dogs. The dogs which develop red mange are believed to
have a hereditary defect in their immune system which allows these mites to
grow and reproduce unchecked. In a normal dog the immune system will keep
the mites under control and prevent them from causing any problems. Red
mange is usually not very pruritic but can cause a generalized or localized
alopecia. If secondary bacteria infection develops due to these mites then
some pruritis and development of pustules can be present.

The only kind of mites that Ivermectin will control is sarcoptic mange.
Ivermectin will not kill the demodectic mites that cause red mange. So I
am assuming that your vet determined the dog had sarcoptic and not red mange.
Sarcoptic mange is communicable or highly contagious if you will. Red mange
is not since most dogs' immune systems are normal and will control the mites.
If your dog does have sarcoptic mange there is no test other than a skin
scrape and often when doing scrapes in cases of sarcoptic mange you will not
find the mites due to the fact that they burrow into the skin. Most often
sarcoptic mange is diagnosed by clinical signs (generalized alopecia,
pruritis) and the history.

Hope this helps.

DR.J
Good Luck and Good Hunting!!

Posted by DR.J on July 16, 2000 at 00:41:06:

In Reply to: Re: Mange posted by T on July 14, 2000 at 13:10:48:

I would agree  that it takes about a month for the coat to return to normal appearance after Sarcoptic Mange has
been properly treated. While Ivermectin can be effective I have found that dipping the dog with Paramite Dip (a Vet Kem product)
to be a more effective treatment than just Ivermectin treatment alone. You can do both and in these cases the recovery period can
be much shorter. Be sure to consult with your regular vet prior to doing this as to whether or not there may be underlying reasons
why dipping with Paramite dip may be contraindicated in your dog's case. Paramite dip is very effective but it is an
organophosphate type product so consult with your vet first. If you decide to dip the dog then be sure to bathe it first and let the
lather stay on the dog's coat for at least 5 minutes before rinsing the shampoo off. Dogs have a lot of "oils" on their skin and by
shampooing it first you will help remove these oils which will allow the dip to penetrate better. When dipping the dog, use a rag or
sponge and apply the dip all over the dog. Be sure to concentrate on the areas of greatest hair loss. Do not towel or blow dry the
dog after dipping and let it drip dry. I hope you find this information useful.

DR.J
Good Luck and Good Hunting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!