What to do if a Yorkie has lice? - briefly
Isolate the Yorkie, bathe it with a veterinarian‑approved lice shampoo, repeat the treatment as instructed, and thoroughly clean bedding, toys, and the home environment. Schedule a veterinary appointment for prescription medication and confirmation that the infestation has been eliminated.
What to do if a Yorkie has lice? - in detail
If a Yorkie shows signs of lice—scratching, visible specks on the skin, or a gritty feeling when running a comb—prompt action prevents discomfort and secondary infection.
Begin by confirming the infestation. Examine the coat with a fine-toothed flea comb, pulling hair away from the skin. Lice appear as small, oval, tan or gray insects; their nits (eggs) cling to hair shafts near the base. A veterinarian can verify the diagnosis through a skin scrape or microscope.
Isolate the dog from other pets to stop transmission. Keep the Yorkie in a single‑room area for at least 48 hours while treatment begins.
Consult a veterinarian for prescription medication. Common options include:
- Spot‑on treatments containing pyrethrins or selamectin, applied directly to the skin between the shoulder blades.
- Oral ivermectin or milbemycin tablets, dosed according to weight.
- Topical shampoos or sprays formulated for canine lice, used according to label instructions.
Follow the veterinarian’s dosage schedule precisely. Repeat applications may be required after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
While medication works, bathe the Yorkie with a lice‑specific shampoo. Warm water, gentle lather, and thorough rinsing remove adult insects and nits from the coat. After each bath, comb the fur with a fine metal comb to extract remaining eggs; dispose of combed material in a sealed bag.
Sanitize the environment to eradicate lingering stages:
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and clothing the dog has touched in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor crevices; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Clean food and water bowls with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 32 parts water), then rinse thoroughly.
- Treat the home with an approved insecticide spray or fogger if recommended by the veterinarian; follow safety guidelines for pets and humans.
Monitor the Yorkie daily for residual itching or new lice. Continue comb checks for at least three weeks. If symptoms persist, return to the veterinarian for possible alternative treatment or secondary skin infection management.
Prevent future infestations by maintaining regular grooming, using a preventative spot‑on product as advised, and inspecting new animals before introduction to the household.