Skin And Bone

Mange is an unpleasant condition passed on by mites that results in hair loss and an agonising death for the fox. Patrick Hook says there is only one humane solution.

- Patrick Hook

Most of us are well aware that foxes carry a variety of diseases, but as shooters it is worth reflecting on what that can mean for the well-being of both our pets and us.

Probably the best known and most common of such issues is sarcoptic mange, a horrible condition caused by Sarcoptes scabies mites, microscopic members of the spider family that are typically transmitted from animal to animal by close contact.

Parasitic mites

Also known as canine scabies or the itch mite, these parasites measure about 0.3mmlong. Even though they are too small to be seen with the naked eye, they can still cause an immense amount of suffering. They burrow into the upper layers of the host animal’s skin, using their mouthparts and special cutting features on their front legs.

Once there, not only do they feed on the unfortunate creature, they also leave behind faeces, lay eggs, and deposit bodily secretions causing allergic reactions, which further increase the intense discomfort.