Demodectic Mange, Canine - contd.
Localized demodicosis usually is passed from the mother to her nursing puppies after they are born. Generally, a puppy will clear the mite infection once its immune system strengthens. However, when a young dog is not able to rid itself of mites, or when treatment fails, the animal will continue to have the infection as an adult.
Adult dogs can have localized demodicosis from puppyhood, or develop localized demodicosis during periods of stress when their immune systems are suppressed. For example, dogs that have puppies sometimes will develop localized areas of demodicosis because their immune systems are temporarily weakened from the pregnancy. However, the demodicosis usually goes away once the dog's immune system recovers.
Unfortunately, older dogs that have an underlying disease such as cancer or are being given medications that suppress the immune system can develop the generalized form of the disease.
