Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 11/29/2007

Question
My seven month old golden retriever puppy was diagnosed with demodicosis
or Red Mange and we took him to the vet who gave us mitaban to do dips at
home.  He told us to shave our dog and sponge on the medicine after
bathing.  After doing some reading I am now seeing that Mitaban is extremely
toxic and perhaps I should not be giving the dog these dips at all...rather, the
vet's office should. I tried to get the vet to opt for ivermectin but he would
not.  I really do not want to clip my dog and so I gave him the dip and worked
it into the skin myself and am noticing that the spots are spreading
EVERYWHERE! It seems as if Mitaban is making it worse.  Is this a normal
situation or should I be more concerned?  Should I change vets and try
Ivermectin instead.  Basically...which works better mitaban or ivermectin?
Which is less harmful to me and my pet? (Please keep in mind I would prefer
not to shave my dog if possible.)

Answer
Mitaban has an affinity for hairs so by shaving the dog, the hairs remaining in the follicle will have a higher concentration of the amitraz.  It works well used once every 2 weeks for a minimum of 6 treatments.  It is toxic, so wear gloves and do it in a well ventilated area. The dog should remain wet for at least 30 minutes before using an air blower to dry.  NEver use towels that wipe off the insecticide. I personally would never send it home with an owner to do.  I do treat these dogs with antibiotics because bacterial infection is common with demodex mites.  That is what causes the most skin problems with mange.  Ivermectin is not approved for dogs with demodex and it can be toxic as well.