CHAPTER V. 
DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 
1. Mange. 
Mange is the result of a germ or parasite burrowing into 
the skin. This parasite may be easily communicated from 
one dog- to another. They multiply extremely fast and when 
the disease once starts it soon spreads over the whole body, 
mostly affecting the skin of the back, head and neck. 
Care should be taken in its management as persons may 
become affected. 
Causes. — The principal causes to be noted are dirty, 
filthy kennels, sleeping in dirty stables or damp places and 
allowing the skin and hair to become dirty. 
Symptoms. — Extreme irritation of the skin is the most 
noticeable symptom. He rubs and scratches himself until 
the hair comes off in spots and frequently the skin bleeds. 
The hair is dry and scurfy and the physical condition in 
general becomes run down. 
Absolute certainty as to the presence of the disease may 
be obtained by the examination of the skin or. scales under 
a microscope. The parasite may be clearly seen. 
Treatment. — If the weather is warm clip the hair off 
short, and give him a thorough good washing with lukewarm 
water and soap, after this rub him dry and apply the creolin 
wash by rubbing it well into the skin all over the body. 
Use two dessertspoonfuls of creolin to the pint of water 
and apply it once a day until the dog stops rubbing him- 
self, the skin heals and the hair starts to grow out. As 
well as this, give a teaspoonful of sulphur in his milk twice 
a day if a large dog. Give the sulphur in proportion to 
the size of the dog. If in the winter time just clip the hair 
off and apply the creolin wash, but do not wash him with 
water. 
See that the sleeping quarters are well cleaned and 
disinfected to prevent the disease from spreading. Feed 
nutritious, wholesome food and keep the patient warm. 
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