Description: Mange (from Middle English manjeue, from Old French manjue, from mangier, meaning to eat) is a parasitic infestation of the skin of animals. Common symptoms include hair loss, itching and inflammation, all of which are caused by microscopic mites. Mange is most commonly found in dogs and other canines, but it can occur in other domestic and wild animals. Similar skin infestations in humans are not usually called mange but Demodicosis which may have a rosacea-like appearance. The mites embed themselves in the hair follicles or skin, depending on the type. Both detection and treatment can be difficult and generally require consultation with a veterinarian. Two types of mites produce canine mange, and each type has characteristic symptoms. In some cases, coyotes with severe cases of mange have been mistaken for the Chupacabra, a creature which, according to urban legend, kills farm animals and sucks their blood. One such case is the Elmendorf Beast.
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