Walden’s Puddle Treats Red Fox Suffering from Sarcoptic Mange

We received many calls from concerned citizens in Pleasant View, Tennessee. An ill red fox was in the neighborhood, and apparently some people were attempting to kill it. Thankfully, someone was able to capture the animal and he was brought to Walden’s Puddle for treatment. He looks terrible, but he should make a full recovery.

This animal has mange.

Mange is a skin disease caused by the presence of mites that burrow into the skin, causing intense, redness, itching, and pain. The two most common types of mange in wildlife are sarcoptic mange (Sarcoptes scabiei) and notoedric mange (Notoedres centrifera). The mites are microscopic, but the effects are easily identified. Mange is characterized by hair loss, red, crusty skin, and a musty, garlicky odor. Mites are spread by direct body contact or use of common nests and burrows. For this reason, it is not uncommon to find outbreaks of mange in specific areas.

Red foxes are particularly susceptible to, and are the most severely affected by, sarcoptic mange. The effect of mange on red foxes is not merely limited to skin irritation; loss of eye sight, hearing, and emaciation are common in infected foxes. The tightening of the skin results in squinty eyes and reduced ear canal size; eating becomes a laborious and painful process.

Though mange is a harsh and unrelenting disease, the mites are easily removed by the administration of certain antiparasitics. Any wild or domestic animal suffering from mange needs immediate medical attention. Sarcoptic mange is zoonotic, meaning it can be transferred to humans, and can result in scabies. When coming in contact with infected animals, it is advisable to wear gloves and wash all exposed skin immediately after handling; when taking these precautions, transmission of mites is highly unlikely.

On average, it costs $70 a week to care for sick or injured foxes. This does not include the rounds of medication he will receive over the next two months. The treatment for mange is a 3 week process; once the animal is stable enough, we will vaccinate for the distemper virus and parvovirus, among others. After the mange has been treated, the fox will need to heal from the various wounds caused by the mites and regrow a new coat before being released. If you would like to aid in the care of this fox, please send donations to P.O. Box 641, Joelton, TN 37080 or visit our donations page.