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Treatment of scabies on dogs

Below you will find the methodology to the diagnosis and treatment of scabies. Please note that I have not given the treatment doses as you must discuss the treatment plan with your own vet.

How scabies is diagnosed:

1) History, clinical findings and response to treatment are all part of diagnosis by your vet.
2) Microscopy examination of skin scrapings to detect mite, nymphs, larva or ova. Note that mites can be extremely difficult to find – false positive results are common.
3) Serology.
4) Histopathology.

Prognosis: good – with correct treatment, the condition should clear.

Treatment:

1) Treat all in affected and in-contact dogs with a scabicide.
2) Treat for any secondary bacterial skin infection – 3-4 weeks and 1 week after the clinical sign’s have resolved
3) Topical shampoo – use an antimicrobial shampoo every 3-7 days.
4) Use effective systemic treatments
a) Selamectin (Revolution).
b) Ivermectin (Ivomec).
d) Doramectin (Dectomax).
e) Milbemycin oxime (Milbemax deworm tablets)
f) Topical Moxidectin

5) Topical treatments
a) Amitraz sol – 0.025-0.03% conc.
b) Fiprinol spray (Frontline).
c) Lime Sulphur solution.
d) Organophosphates – very toxic and poor availability.

6) If the dog is severely puritic and the mites have been identified then steroids given for the first 2-5 days.

7) Treat the environment with an effective parasiticidal and dispose of any bedding.

Important: This parasite is highly contagious and can also infest humans.

(Dr Campbell, May 2011)

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