Healthy Dogs

Dog Mange (Scabies)

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Oral ivermectin is effective against scabies and is frequently used as a diagnostic test when skin scrapings have been negative. Ivermectin, in doses used for scabies, has produced central nervous system problems and deaths in Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, Old English Sheepdogs, Australian Shepherds, and other herding breeds and their crosses. The drug is contraindicated in these breeds at the higher dosages. Dogs of these breeds made be tested for the MDR 1 (multi-drug resistance) gene by having your veterinarian send a cheek swab to Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Always have the heartworm status of your dog checked before giving ivermectin, because it may cause a reaction in dogs who are positive for the heartworm larvae. Recent reports suggest that Interceptor (milbemycin oxime) may also be effective against scabies mites, and could be used instead of ivermectin in breeds in which ivermectin is contraindicated. Revolution (selamectin) is also labeled to help in preventing and treating sarcoptic mange in dogs.

Corticosteroids relieve severe itching and may be required for the first two to three days of treatment. Infected skin sores require oral and topical antibiotics. Adult mites can live for 21 days off the host.

Treatment of the indoor environment is advisable to prevent recurrence.