Puppy Suffering From Mange Goes From Itchy to Irresistible

A dog’s coat can completely transform their appearance. From a Poodle’s coiled curls to a Golden Retriever’s magnificent mane, a canine’s fur can convey not only breed characteristics but a sense of personality. Beneath it all, however, is the largest organ in any mammal’s body: their skin.

Scratching the itch

If you’ve suffered from dermatitis, an allergic reaction or even a bad sunburn, you know just how debilitating dermal complications can be to your quality of life. The same goes for dogs, whose skin grows their fur for multiple important functions, like insulation and protection against the elements.

Ankylosaurus, a 4-month-old Alaskan Klee Kai, was unfortunately faced with an aggressive skin condition before he was even halfway to reaching his first birthday. A Good Samaritan brought the scruffy pup to the Arizona Humane Society in March after finding him as a stray, and it was evident from the beginning that he was uncomfortable and needed our help.

Visible hair loss in multiple areas, constant itching, irritation and dandruff comprised Ankylosaurus’ main symptoms and left him looking worse for wear. After a thorough exam in our Lazin Animal Foundation Trauma Hospital, we determined that little Ankylosaurus was likely suffering from Sarcoptic Mange, also known as scabies.

Comfortable in his own skin

If left untreated, scabies can infect other animals, lead to secondary infections and the constant discomfort can even discourage an animal’s appetite. Our veterinarians sprang into action, treating Ankylosaurus’ condition with medication, lime sulfur dips and oatmeal baths.

In just under a month, the adorable puppy’s skin had been soothed, and he met his forever family shortly thereafter.

Thank you for your unwavering support. Together, we can continue to save our community’s most vulnerable pets, like Ankylosaurus.