Cures for Demodectic Mange in Chihuahuas

If your chihuahua shows signs of hair loss, itching, and red, irritated skin, she may have the bacterial infection known as demodectic mange. Microscopic mites, which invade the skin and hair follicles, cause demodectic mange. While all dogs can encounter mange, chihuahuas are among several breeds that are more susceptible to the disease. Of positive note, there are a variety of effective remedies for treating and curing mange infections.

  1. Amitraz

    • Applying a topical treatment containing amitraz (an anti-parasitic drug) to the affected area is a common cure for demodectic mange. This form of treatment requires a prescription from your veterinarian, but you can administer treatment from the comfort of your and your chihuahua's home. The treatment lasts six to eight weeks and involves giving your dog a sponge bath using the amitraz solution every other week. Your vet will perform at least two skin scrapings during the course of treatment to measure its effectiveness. According to Vet Info, this treatment cures mange in about 80 percent of dogs.

    Ivermectin

    • Giving your chihuahua a parasite control drug, such as ivermectin, is another cure for demodectic mange. You can choose to give the drug to your dog orally or by injection. Medication should continue until two skin scrapings yield negative results. The Vet Info website says collies and shelties are breeds that may suffer toxic reactions to ivermectin, but does not list any any adverse effects of the drug on chihuahuas.

    Garlic

    • Garlic is a good remedy for curing all parasite problems including mange in dogs. Because mites do not like the sulphur compounds found in garlic, you can apply diluted garlic oil to the affected areas of chihuahua's skin to combat the progression of mange. Since garlic also has anti-bacterial qualities, this treatment also minimizes bacterial infection.

    Organic Oils and Herbs

    • According to the Natural Dog Health Remedies website, Neem oil, together with lavender oil and almond oil, make an effective skin rinse against mange. These oils are available over the counter at organic food stores or garden centers. To make your homemade topical treatment, combine equal parts of lavender oil and neem oil with 10 parts of almond oil. Apply the treatment to the affected areas of your chihuahua's skin once or twice daily. You may also consider applying echinacea, calendula and aloe vera to soothe the irritated areas.

    Dermisil

    • Many dog owners cure mange successfully with Dermisil, a lime-sulfur treatment for pet mange. You can buy Dermisil at pet supply stores, organic-food stores and on the Internet. The Dermisil website provides instructions on using their products to treat pet mange, and indicates a period of two to four weeks to clear up the condition.