Dog Scabies Treatment
Scabies, also known as sarcoptic mange, occurs when microscopic mites invade your dog's skin. This highly contagious disease, which can spread to humans and other animals, causes itchiness, patchy hair loss and small red bumps. Skin lesions can develop when scabies is left untreated. All animals in your household should receive treatment to prevent further outbreaks, even if they haven't shown signs of infection. Treatment typically requires a minimum of three weeks.
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Medications
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Treatment for scabies often includes the use of an anti-parasitic medication. Ivermectin can be given orally or by injection in one to four doses on a weekly or biweekly basis. Infections usually clear up within four weeks. Ivermectin dosages required to treat scabies can be toxic to certain breeds, including Shetland sheepdogs, collies and Australian shepherds, according to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. Dogs that can't take ivermectin can be treated with selamectin instead. In most cases, one topical application of selamectin is enough to destroy mange mites. More severe cases need a second application. Other medication options include the oral heartworm preventive milbemycin oxime and the topical flea preventive moxidectin. Secondary bacterial skin infections require the use of antibiotics for four to 10 weeks, depending on the severity of the infections.
Bathing and Dipping
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Bathing a dog with an anti-bacterial or anti-dandruff shampoo and using a medicated dip can eliminate a mange infestation. Long fur should be clipped to allow the dip to penetrate your dog's skin. The most effective dips include amitraz and lime sulfur. Treatment with amitraz usually involves three or four dips given at two-week intervals. Dogs with diabetes mellitus should not be treated with amitraz because it can cause high blood sugar levels. Toy breeds face a higher risk of suffering adverse effects and should be treated with lower dosages. Lime sulfur treatments generally involve giving dips every five to seven days for a total of six dips. Puppies under four weeks old and dogs that are sensitive to ivermectin often are given this form of treatment. Lime sulfur gives off an offensive odor and temporarily turns white fur yellow. Treat your dog outdoors if possible to prevent furniture and carpet stains. Applying baby oil can relieve dry skin caused by this type of dip.
Cleaning and Prevention
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Washing or discarding your dog's bedding and thoroughly vacuuming your house can get rid of any remaining sarcoptic mange mites. Cleaning and vacuuming regularly can help prevent another infestation.
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