How to Help Dogs With Demodectic Mites

Demodectic mites, or demodex canis, are tiny parasites that infest the inside of hair follicles. Typically, infestation occurs due to prolonged physical contact. This contact transference is established early in life when puppies suckle the mother. Demodectic mites usually go unnoticed, but occasionally, demodectic mite infestation can manifest itself as a serious skin disease called mange. Mange causes great discomfort to dogs, but can be treated successfully.

Things You'll Need

  • Ivermectin
  • Electric hair clippers
  • Benzoyl peroxide shampoo
  • Latex gloves
  • Amitraz
  • Sponge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Book an appointment with your veterinarian. Your vet can diagnose the severity of the infestation and provide you with the tools you need to care for your dog. Milder cases of mange can be treated with minor remedies such as powders or topical ointments. More severe cases of mange will require treatment with a prescription of Ivermectin, a generic anti-parasitic.

    • 2

      Give your dog a daily dose of Ivermectin. Consult your veterinarian to accurately determine the correct dosage based on your dog's weight. Ivermectin is extremely effective at killing demodectic mites.

    • 3

      Clip your dog's fur closely with electric clippers--or have a groomer do this. Talk softly to the dog and pet it gently to help keep it calm while you work. Cutting the fur close enhances the effectiveness of dip-based treatment.

    • 4

      Bathe your dog using the benzoyl peroxide shampoo. Let the shampoo soak into the skin for at least 10 minutes before rinsing it off. Benzoyl peroxide opens up hair follicles to enhance the effectiveness of Amitraz and aids in clearing up skin infections. Amitraz is a veterinarian-prescribed generic topical anti-parasitic.

    • 5

      Put on latex gloves and apply the Amitraz dip solution with a sponge. Follow your vet's dosage recommendations closely if you are using Amitraz on smaller dogs. Soak the dog's coat thoroughly with the dip and allow it to completely saturate all areas of skin. Do not rinse. Allow the dip to air dry. Repeat this process twice a week for best results.