guinea pig mange

Question
I RECENTLY GOT 2 PIGS AND FROM THE FIRST COUPLE OF DAYS I NOTICED ONE HAD LITTLE BUMPS ON HIM.NOW HE HAS LOST HIS HAIR ON THE BACK ON HIM AND I THINK IT IS MANGE.HE LOOKS TO BE ABOUT 6 YEARS OLD.I DONT WANT HIM TO SUFFER BUT I ALSO DONT WANT HIM TO INFECT MY CHILDREN OR MY OTHER PETS.CAN IT SPREAD TO MY DOGS AND CATS.PLEASE HELP.

Answer
Hello Larry,

There are a few types of mites piggies get and some are transmitable to other species (humans, dogs, and cats among them). I advise taking them both to the vet right awawy. There are treatments that are usually very successful. It's also a good idea to keep them away from your other pets and children and to wear protective clothing (gloves, long sleeves, etc.) anytime you have to handle them, washing the clothing immediately afterward. It can be contained and prevented from spreading to the other members of your family, but everyone has to be careful. Usually treament is an (or often 2, given a week apart) injection of ivermectin. This should clear it up quickly. There are other possible infections that can cause similar symptoms (fungal infections among them) that are also fairly easy to treat. Good luck.

-kkat
http://www.geocities.com/abyssinianguineapigs