For Referring Veterinarians

Sarcoptic mange, aka “Scabies,” is a parasitic skin disease caused by mites living on and burrowed within the skin of the host animal. Although these mites exhibit a host preference, they have zoonotic potential for causing skin problems in humans. Sarcoptic mange may be the cause of severe itch in dogs but may be cured with effective treatment. Understanding Scabies Scabies (sarcoptic mange) causes a non-seasonal intensely pruritic (itchy) skin disease in dogs and is caused by…

A 9-month-old, male Bernese Mountain dog was referred to dermatology services with a four-month history of canine oral papillomatosis involving the upper and lower lips, rostral aspect of the dorsal tongue, the hard palate and oral mucosae. Lesions had progressed rapidly over the four months prior to presentation despite earlier excision of a solitary lesion and a trial of azithromycin. Malodor and secondary infection were significant and affecting the dogs quality of life and…

Malassezia pachydermatis is an important pathogen in dogs causing Malassezia dermatitis. It warrants careful attention in the management of dogs with skin disease. Infection may also occur in cats, though less frequently. MP can result in significant pruritus and may contribute significantly to the overall pruritus severity in dogs with primary pruritic skin diseases. Control of yeast in these patients is essential to their overall management.  If yeast is not controlled, treatment for the pruritic skin disease will…