Moment Mange-Infected Puppy 'Falls in Love' with Pets From Rescuers Is Beautiful
A dog suffering from a terrible skin condition is getting the help he so desperately needs. Sheldon came to the PAWS Chicago animal shelter in Illinois with the worst case of mange we've ever seen. He looks like he's in pain. But despite looking worse for the wear, employees of the shelter weren't going to let the little guy feel unloved.
Sheldon has big, beautiful, sad eyes and a sweet, open face. But his skin is red, chapped, and flared and the condition has taken its toll on him.
As the clip shows, the mange is all over Sheldon's body. There are barely any spots where the condition hasn't taken over. Understandably, this might keep some people, or even other animals, from wanting to get close to the dog. But dogs crave social interaction and affection, which is why an employee put on some gloves and made sure to give the dog some attention. In the video, you can see how much Sheldon appreciates the touch.
Related: 'Diamond in the Rough' Dog at Rural California Shelter Only Wants to Be Loved
"Sheldon just arrived at PAWS, and we don’t have to tell you what a hard time he’s had as a stray. Every inch of his mange-infected skin tells the story of his four months of life so far," the shelter wrote in the caption.
The comments section was so emotional. "He needed that in so many ways," wrote one person. "You are in good hands sweet baby pup," another commenter praised. "He is soo beautiful. Such a sweet little boy," one woman praised. "Can’t wait for his transformation, he’s in great hands," one person added.
What Is Mange?
Mange can look very scary. A dog might lose all their fur and their skin can be covered in sores or with thick, hard, crusty patches. It's a terrible, terrible skin condition. But what causes mange and what is the cure — if any?
Mange is a skin condition caused by mites. There are two major types of mange caused by different types of mites, Sarcoptic Mange, sometimes known as scabies, or Demodectic Mange, sometimes known as red mange or demodex.
If your dog contracts mange, you might be tempted to try and rid them of the condition yourself, but don't. Talk to your veterinarian, who can help even if the case seems mild. That includes medicated baths and topical medications that can be effective in getting rid of the infection. Mange is definitely not fun, but there is a cure. And it's important to remember the dog suffering from the condition, it's so easy to forget they still need our care.
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