Sarcoptic mange is a skin condition, also known as scabies, that can attack dogs and puppies and cause itching and hair loss. It is caused by tiny mites that live on the dog's body. They can be passed on to other dogs, cats and even humans. The mites will spread out all over the dog, leading to itching and sores that can become infected due to the dog's scratching. You can stop sarcoptic mange with home treatments for your dog.
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Clip
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A dog with sarcoptic mange should be clipped before the main part of the home treatment begins. This is especially true if the dog has long hair. This will allow the medicated bath water to saturate the skin more easily.
Bathe
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Bathe the clipped dog and scrub it with benzoyl peroxide shampoo to make sure the skin is clean. Follow up with a medicated dip such as lime sulfur or an organophosphate. According to the Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education website, you will have to repeat this process once every two weeks over a four to six week period to ensure the treatment is successful. Take care when bathing the dog's face. The mites that cause sarcoptic mange often live on the ears and face, but those areas are sensitive.
Medicate
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Dips may not to suitable for older or sickly dogs, or you might prefer not to give your dog baths. There are several medications that are effective as an alternate treatment for sarcoptic mange. Doctors Foster and Smith say the flea treatment Revolution can also be effective against mange. This topical medication is put on the dog's skin. Other topical treatments include Frontline Spray, Frontline Plus and Frontline Top Spot.
Environment
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The dog's environment should be treated to make sure the animal doesn't get reinfected. Use an insecticide such as permethrin to treat the dog's blankets, bedding and other articles that could be harboring mites. If other dogs have been in contract with the infected animal, they should be treated, too.
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