Demodectic Mange (demodex)

This is an excerpt of an article written by Dr Jeannie Thomason (Veterinary Naturopath, Small Animal Nutritionist, & Natural Animal Health Care Consultant/ Educator) who is a wonderful person making huge differences in the lives of dogs all over the world. She has intimate knowledge of brachycephalics, which is how we found each other, and she has written great articles on many health issues which can be found on her website.

The full article concerning mange can be found here.

This is just such an excellent summary that I asked her if I could share it here for everyone.

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A dog's immune system does not fully mature until 12-18 months of age, a puppy or dog with demodectic mange that has not had it's immune system kept in good, strong condition, may have relapses until the immune system is fully mature. Demodectic mange in dogs over 2 years of age is usually classified as adult-onset, and occurs secondary to an underlying cause.

Dogs with immune suppression due to over-vaccination, poor nutrition, illnesses or disease, are also candidates for demodectic mange. Demodectic mange can also occur in very old dogs because the function of the immune system often declines with age due to poor nutrition and chemical bombardment through out its life time.

Demodex mites feed on cellular protiens, systemic yeast, dietary yeast and/or sugar in the system. If you break the cycle, you weaken or starve the systemic yeast and the mites are not able to colonize in the pores. This is why it is so important to NOT feed any grains, vegetables, fruits or brewers/ nutritional yeast. And preferable fresh raw meat and bones.

As for supplements, look to boost the immune system... Colostrum, Transfer Factor, etc. and Anti-oxidents... Vitamin C (with bioflavonoids), Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Selenium, Zinc (chelated type) Fish Oil, etc.

Probiotics and Enzymes are very important!

Topically, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Ionic Silver, Colosturm, Raw Coconut Oil, Aloe Vera, Essential Oil of Lavender and or Purification (I only use, trust and recommend Young Living Oil as I know they are theraputic grade and pure) .

REMEMBER: NO DRUGS. NO CHEMICALS. NO DIPS. NO VACCINATIONS. NO GRAINS, POTATOES OR YEASTS.. Each of these will only further damage the immune system.
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