by Bob Thomas
 
Wow, here it is, July already.  Although many folks are away at this time of the year, there's always a need for our monthly veterinary clinics.  It was really nice to see Dr Figueroa this month.  Dr "Fig" doesn't get to Placencia very often any more but we always appreciate his services when he does.  He and his family were hosted by Robert's Grove for the weekend.  Let me take a moment, on behalf of PHS, to express our appreciation and gratitude to Risa and Robert Frackman, Robert's Grove, for your support and generosity!
 
For those who like to know, the statistics for the July Clinic are:
Spays - 2 dogs, Neuters - 2 dogs, 4/1 (cat vaccinations) - 3
6/1 (dog vaccinations) - 15, Rabies - 9
Memberships
     New individual - 3, Family renewal - 2, Junior renewal - 1
Building Fund Donations - $175.00
Total people served - Saturday 28 & Sunday 25
 
Many of you are taking advantage of the clinics by doing a little pet shopping for everything from pet medications to leashes and collars, pet treats and toys, and even pet pillows!  There will always be some special sale going for current members.  For instance, in July, Advantage (for cats) was offered at a great discount.  Another Summer Special offers the Humane Society "Recued is my Favorite Breed" tank tops for only $25 (while they last!). Available in both men’s and women’s sizes.

In the last two months, I've noticed an unusual number of pets coming to clinic with skin or coat issues of one form or fashion.  Curious as to why the increase, consulted Dr "Fig" and learned that there is currently a very high level of mange in Belize.  Let me share what I’ve learned about mange and its' treatment.

Mange is a common skin condition that can cause a lot of discomfort for your pet.  Although there are several types of mange, they are all caused by a specific type of mite.  These mites are so tiny, they can only be seen with a microscope.  Mange will not go away on its' own.  It's important to know the tell tale signs of mange, because they are the only indication that a problem exists.
 
The two types of mange I want to address are Sarcoptic and Demodectic.  Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious form of mange, sometimes referred to as scabies.  This form of mange can spread rapidly among animals and can even spread to humans!  Isn’t that a scary thought!  Fortunately, the mite is unable to reproduce on humans, but continued contact with an infected animal will continually renew the supply.  Symptoms include hair loss and intense itching and scratching.  Sometimes the tip of the ear will be crusted over.  The vet will take a sample "skin scraping", but often the problem can be diagnosed based on the animals appearance.

In most cases, the treatment for sarcoptic mange is weekly injections of Ivermectin for up to a month.  Cortisone ointment can be applied directly on the sores to help stop the itching, but it will not treat the problem.  Additionally, every animal that has been exposed to this mange must be treated, even if they don't appear sick.  The life cycle of the mite is several weeks so the entire household and areas the infected animal came in contact with needs to be cleaned and disinfected. 

The most common form of mange is demodectic, or red mange.  Generally affecting puppies, red mange is not contagious between dogs.  Rather, the puppy receives the mite from their mothers.  If a dog is born without the condition, there is no possibility they will ever have it.  Red mange does not affect humans.

The main symptom of red mange on a young dog is from one to several hairless areas on their body.  It doesn't itch as much as sarcoptic mange but it is still a nuisance.  In most cases, this mange will clear up on its' own.

Is there any way a pet owner can prevent mange from affecting their animals?  As I mentioned earlier, all types of mange are caused by a mite.  An animal is more vulnerable to mange if it is malnourished or has a weakened immune system.  The use of supplements containing fatty acids and nutrients fortify the immune system and ward off mite infestations.  An inexpensive form of these fatty acids is in cod liver oil which can be purchase in easy to administer gel caps at places like Wallen’s Pharmacy. 

I hope this article is helpful to you.  Sarcoptic mange will not go away on its' own.  For the sake of your animals, please seek veterinary treatment if your pet has been exposed to, or is showing symptoms of mange.  The Placencia Humane Society is here to help those who might not be able to afford the entire cost of treatment.
 
If you need to contact PHS please call:
For surgeries scheduling etc, contact - Pat Rarrick 610-0522
Rescues and adoptions contact -
Pam Thomas 629-3599 or Shannon Romero 600-2473