While they are not FDA approved for this particular use in
the dog yet, they are all approved for the control of other external parasites (fleas, ticks) in dogs and have extensive safety studies for long term use. These medications have become the treatment of choice for demodicosis. They are typically administered once each month for a minimum of three months. They should not be dis- continued until the pet is negative for Demodex on two consec- utive skin scrapings. All dogs with generalized demodex should receive medicat-
ed baths with a specific shampoo (benzoyl peroxide based) to help open the hair follicles in addition to the other therapies. As always, ask your family veterinarian which treatment options would be best suited for your dog. WHAT IS THE PROGNOSIS FOR MY DOG? Some patients
with localized demodex will progress to the generalized form before improving. Treatment of both forms of demodectic mange is generally successful (about 90%) although the process will take time. However, if the immune system is severely compromised, neither the mites nor the infection may respond to treatment and the patient may never improve. Fortunately, this is quite uncom- mon.
WHAT MAY I EXPECT AFTER TREATMENT IS STARTED? As
the mites begin to die, the dog may become itchy and/or begin to lose more hair. This is a reaction to the dying mites and actual- ly indicates the treatment is working even though the dog may look worse initially. As the treatment period progresses, the hair gradually begins to regrow and fill in the patches of hair loss. HOW IS THE RESPONSE TO TREATMENT ASSESSED?
A schedule of follow-up skin scrapes is planned to allow monitor- ing of the demodex numbers. Typically, the first skin scrape is done four weeks after the initial treatment and then every two to four weeks thereafter depending on the initial skin scrape findings and medication being used. Following successful treatment, is it likely to reoccur? Due to
the fact that the immune system does not mature fully until approximately 12-18 months of age, a dog with demodectic mange may have relapses during that period. If this occurs, it is important to begin retreatment promptly to minimize the possi- bility of developing uncontrolled demodex and secondary skin infection and scarring. Demodectic mange may also occur in “senior” dogs because
function of the immune system often declines with age-related ill- ness. Adult dogs who have immune suppression due to illness or certain medications are at risk for demodectic mange. If not spayed, the demodectic mange often worsens or reoccurs when the dog comes into heat or becomes pregnant. Any dog with demodex should be spayed or neutered due to the genetic aspect of the disease as well as to prevent these hormonal triggers. med- ication are also at risk for demodectic mange. If not spayed, the demodectic mange often worsens or reoccurs when the dog comes into heat or becomes pregnant. Any dog with demodex should be spayed or neutered due to the genetic aspect of the disease as well as to prevent these hormonal triggers.
U Y
Dr. Elizabeth Baird is certified in pain management, canine rehabilitation and veterinary medical acupuncture. She is the Practice Owner of Country Oaks Animal Hospital & Boarding Kennel, Palm Harbor - 727.785.6524 and Steele Pain Management Rehabilitation Center -
727.785.HURT.
www.TheNewBarker.com
Happy to be Force Free. From our gr
At NAND ’S WALKING P f
At NANDA ’S WALKING PAWS we believe in the words “Force Free”. g
ooming methods, to pet sit reinfor
cement is applied – 100% of f the time. PET SITTING (THERE’ S NO PLACE LIKE HOME) DOG W DOG WALKING p g
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THE NEW BARKER 81
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