How to treat canine demodectic mange?

When a fluffy dog starts scratching frequently, its skin gradually develops red spots, hair loss, and even forms scabs. As an owner, seeing the uncomfortable appearance of the beloved pet, one's heart is filled with distress and anxiety. This is likely the result of canine demodectic mange. This skin disease caused by the parasitism of Demodex mites not only affects the dog's appearance but also threatens its health. To bring the beloved dog back to vitality, it is urgent to find a scientific and effective treatment method.

The treatment of canine demodectic mange is a "tough battle" that requires the combination of patience and professionalism. First of all, it should be understood that Demodex mites are common parasites on a dog's skin. Under normal circumstances, they coexist peacefully with the dog and do not cause diseases. However, when a dog's immunity decreases, such as being young, old, suffering from other diseases, or using immunosuppressants for a long time, these originally "well-behaved" mites will multiply in large numbers, thus triggering the disease. Therefore, when treating canine demodectic mange, we cannot just focus on killing the mites but also attach great importance to enhancing the dog's immunity, which is the core and key of the treatment.

In terms of drug treatment, choosing the appropriate acaricide is crucial. Ivermectin is one of the commonly used treatment drugs. It can effectively inhibit the neuromuscular activity of mites, thus achieving the goal of killing mites. However, ivermectin has a certain degree of toxicity. Especially for breeds such as Collies, it may cause serious adverse reactions. Therefore, before use, it must be evaluated by a professional veterinarian and used strictly according to the dosage. Doramectin is also a highly effective acaricide. It has relatively high safety, long-lasting efficacy, and can continuously exert its effect for a long time to control the reproduction of mites. In addition to injectable drugs, topical medications are also indispensable. Medicated bath solutions containing ingredients such as amitraz and trichlorfon can directly act on the surface of the dog's skin to kill the mites and eggs on the skin surface. Regular medicated baths for the dog, generally 1 to 2 times a week, can effectively remove the parasites on the body surface. However, pay attention to the concentration and usage method of the medicated bath solution to avoid irritating the dog's skin.

In addition to killing mites, controlling secondary infections cannot be ignored. When a dog's skin is damaged due to mite bites, microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi can easily take advantage of the situation to cause secondary infections and aggravate the condition. At this time, appropriate antibiotics or antifungal drugs need to be selected for treatment according to the type of infection. For example, for bacterial infections, commonly used antibiotics such as amoxicillin and cephalosporins can effectively inhibit the growth of bacteria; for fungal infections, antifungal drugs such as terbinafine and itraconazole need to be used. During the treatment process, closely observe the dog's skin condition and adjust the medication plan in a timely manner.

Enhancing the dog's immunity is an important part of treating canine demodectic mange. In terms of diet, provide the dog with a nutritionally balanced diet. Choose high-quality dog food that is rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, which can provide sufficient energy and nutrition for the dog's body and help enhance its immunity. At the same time, some nutritional supplements can be appropriately given to the dog, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, fish oil, etc. These nutrients have antioxidant effects and can improve the dog's body resistance. In addition, it is also very important to let the dog maintain appropriate exercise and sufficient rest. Take the dog for appropriate outdoor activities every day, which can not only strengthen its physique but also make the dog happy; ensure that the dog has enough sleep time, which is conducive to the recovery of the body and the improvement of immunity.

During the treatment process, the careful care of pet owners also plays a crucial role. Keep the dog's living environment clean and hygienic. Regularly wash the dog's bedding, toys, and other supplies to avoid the breeding of mites. At the same time, prevent the dog from scratching the affected area. An Elizabethan collar can be put on the dog to prevent it from licking and scratching, and avoid the aggravation of skin damage and infection. Also, regularly take the dog to the pet hospital for reexamination. Check the number of mites and the infection situation through microscopic examination and adjust the treatment plan in a timely manner. Treating canine demodectic mange is a long process that may take several weeks or even months. Pet owners should have enough patience and confidence to accompany the dog through this difficult period.

Every dog is a little angel in the owner's life, bringing us endless joy with their loyalty and companionship. When they are tortured by canine demodectic mange, we should use professional knowledge and full love to provide them with a shield of health. As long as we persevere, treat scientifically, and care carefully, we will definitely be able to help the dog overcome the disease, let them regain healthy and smooth skin, and run happily in the sun again.