How to treat worms on dogs' skin?

Dogs are our most loyal companions in life, and their health is always on our mind. When you find that your dog is constantly scratching its skin, and you see signs of abnormal movement on its skin, many owners' hearts are in their throats, and worry and heartache surge in their hearts. Yes, your dog may be troubled by worms on its skin. This not only affects the dog's appearance and comfort, but if not treated in time, it may also cause more serious health problems. ​

There are many types of worms on dog skin, such as scabies and demodex. Scabies usually "set up camp" in thinner skin areas such as the ears, elbows, and abdomen of dogs. Dogs infected with scabies will have erythema and papules on their skin. The severe itching makes the dog restless, and the dog keeps biting and scratching. Seeing their painful appearance, how can the owner not be worried. Demodex prefers the dog's face, around the eyelids, and limbs. Dogs that are targeted by Demodex will have rough skin, hair loss, and increased dandruff. The originally smooth and shiny hair will become sparse and messy, and the dog's mental state will be much worse than before. ​

When it is suspected that there are worms on the dog's skin, the owner's first reaction is often to anxiously find a solution. But before that, be sure to take the dog to a professional pet hospital for diagnosis. Professional veterinarians will use skin scrapings to examine and carefully observe under a microscope to accurately determine which worm is causing the problem. This step is crucial because there are differences in the treatment of different types of worms. Only by clarifying the cause can the right medicine be prescribed. ​

For scabies infection, medicated baths are usually used. The veterinarian will choose a suitable medicated bath for the dog, which can effectively kill scabies. During the medicated bath, the owner must be particularly patient and careful. First, gently hold the dog in a bathtub filled with warm water and bath liquid, and be gentle to avoid hurting the dog. Then soak the dog's whole body with warm water, starting from the head, slowly apply the bath gel, massage the dog's skin, let the bath gel fully play a role, especially in the seriously infected parts, stay for a while. During the whole process, the dog may resist a little because of discomfort, the owner should comfort it gently and give it enough sense of security. Medicated baths generally need to be performed 1-2 times a week for several weeks until the symptoms on the dog's skin disappear completely. Between medicated baths, it is also necessary to use external anthelmintic ointment and apply it to the infected parts of the dog to further consolidate the treatment effect.

If it is a Demodex infection, the treatment plan may be relatively complicated. In addition to medicated baths and topical medications, oral antibiotics are sometimes required according to the dog's condition. This is because Demodex infection may cause secondary bacterial infection of the skin, and antibiotics can help control inflammation. When taking oral medications, the owner must master the correct method. The medication can be wrapped in snacks that dogs like, such as small pieces of dried chicken and cheese, so that the dog can take the medication smoothly while enjoying the food. Similarly, topical mite removal drugs should be applied accurately to the dog's skin according to the veterinarian's instructions. When applying, be careful to avoid the dog's eyes, mouth and other sensitive parts. Treating Demodex infection is a patient process that may take several months. The owner should pay close attention to the changes in the dog's condition and take it to the hospital for regular checkups. ​

In the process of treating dog skin worms, environmental cleaning and disinfection should not be ignored. The dog's kennel, mat, toys, etc. may have worms and eggs. Clean the kennel regularly and expose it to the sun. Ultraviolet rays have a strong ability to kill bacteria and insects. Dog toys can also be soaked in hot water for disinfection to ensure that the dog lives in a clean and hygienic environment to avoid re-infection. ​

In addition to treatment, it is equally important to prevent dog skin worm infection. Usually, it is necessary to ensure that the dog's diet is balanced. High-quality dog ​​food is rich in various vitamins and minerals, which can enhance the dog's immunity and make them more resistant to worms. Regular external deworming of dogs is also an essential step. There are many safe and effective external deworming products on the market. According to the product instructions, use it once a month or quarterly for dogs to effectively prevent worm infection. ​

Watching the once lively and cute dog become listless because of the worms on the skin, the owner's heart is full of self-blame and heartache. But as long as we discover it in time, actively take the dog to treatment, and give it enough love and care, the dog will definitely be able to restore its former vitality. Every time we treat a dog, it is a process of expressing our deep love for it. In this process, our relationship with the dog will also become deeper.