How should scabies mite be treated in a dog? - briefly
«Selamectin, moxidectin, or ivermectin administered topically or orally eradicates Sarcoptes scabiei in dogs, typically complemented by a benzoyl‑peroxide shampoo for rapid mite removal.» Concurrent environmental decontamination and isolation of the animal for at least two weeks prevent reinfestation.
How should scabies mite be treated in a dog? - in detail
Effective management of sarcoptic mange in dogs requires a combination of pharmacological therapy, environmental control, and supportive care.
Systemic acaricidal agents are the cornerstone of treatment. Recommended products include:
- Ivermectin, administered orally at 200‑400 µg/kg once daily for three consecutive days, then weekly for two to three weeks.
- Selamectin, applied topically at 6 mg/kg on the dorsal neck, repeated after 30 days.
- Milbemycin oxime, given orally at 0.5 mg/kg once weekly for four weeks.
- Moxidectin, delivered as a spot‑on formulation at 2.5 mg/kg, repeated after 30 days.
Topical treatments complement systemic drugs, especially for severe skin lesions. Options are:
- Lime sulfur dips (1‑2 % solution) applied for 10‑15 minutes, repeated weekly for three weeks.
- Benzoyl peroxide shampoo (5‑10 % concentration) used every other day for two weeks.
Environmental decontamination limits reinfestation. All bedding, blankets, and grooming tools should be washed in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dried on high heat. Hard surfaces may be cleaned with a 1 % bleach solution or an appropriate acaricide spray.
Secondary bacterial infections often accompany mange. Empirical antibiotic therapy, such as amoxicillin‑clavulanic acid (20 mg/kg twice daily) for 7‑10 days, addresses common pathogens.
Regular monitoring of clinical response is essential. Improvement in pruritus and lesion resolution typically occur within 7‑10 days of initiating therapy. Persistent lesions after two weeks warrant reassessment of dosage, drug choice, or potential resistance.
Owner education on preventing future infestations includes avoiding contact with infected animals, maintaining regular ectoparasite preventive programs, and promptly treating any new cases.
Adherence to the outlined protocol maximizes cure rates and minimizes relapse risk.