If your dog has mites, he might be uncomfortable or itchy. He might even scratch so much that he harms himself. There are several different varieties of mites, which cause different symptoms. Most dogs will need medication to treat the mites, but which medicine you give your dog will depend on the type of mite.
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Sarcoptic Mites
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The sarcoptic mite is one of the mites that cause mange, which is characterized by severe itching, ragged or uneven hair coat and damaged skin. Sarcoptic mites dig tiny tunnels in your dog's skin, which is why he might itch and have inflammation or hair loss.
There are dips for sarcoptic mites, including prescription dips Paramite and Mitaban. Consult with your veterinarian before dipping your dog in Mitaban. It is very powerful and can be toxic to some dogs.
Ivermectin is a prescription medication that is ordinarily used as a dewormer for farm animals, but is also the active ingredient in heartworm medications for dogs. Some veterinarians believe that, when given in the correct doses, it can effectively kill sarcoptic mites. However, this medication is still highly controversial, especially in collies, Shetland sheepdogs and other herding breeds, because these dogs commonly have a mutated gene that makes Ivermectin cause adverse side effects.
Dermodex Mites
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The dermodex mite is the other type of mite that causes mange. While mange caused by sarcoptic mites can occur all over a dog's body, mange caused by dermodex mites is usually confined to one location.
Veterinarians usually recommend the same dips for these mites. An over-the-counter dip called Dermasil also can treat mange caused by dermodex mites and is less costly than prescription dips.
Sometimes, the mange caused by dermodex mites will go away on its own, but you should always actively treat puppies with the mange because they do not have a fully developed immune system and are at a higher risk of infection and other mange complications.
Ear Mites
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Ear mites are common and extremely contagious, so it's important to treat your dog right away. Left untreated, ear mites can cause damage to the ear canal and eventually lead to hearing loss.
There are many different medications that treat ear mites and most contain the insecticide pyrethrin, which kills the mites. Medications without pyrethrin might not be effective against ear mites. You can usually treat ear mites at home but it can take between two and four weeks to rid your dog of them.
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