Expert: English Bulldogs ( Marie ) e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 4/12/2008

Question
Hi Maria,
Pudge, my year-old Bulldog was diagnosed with Demodex when he was about 6 months old. I first contacted my breeder about the problem and he started sending someone over to give my pup shots every once in a while. The shots weren't really consistently done so I decided to take him to a vet. They started him with the dips, but I found it dried his skin and cause even more itching, and he was cutting himself pretty badly with the scratching. Not to mention the peroxide smell isn't so nice. He's been on shots  of 1% Ivomec, he took it orally for a little while but it's very hard to get this big guy to take it. We also took the Vet's recommendation and started feeding him Royal Canin for Bulldogs which she said should help with his skin conditions. I guess my question to you is which is the most effective way to treat my  Pudge? Here in New York people talk about breeders selling bad dogs and vets over charging and treating pets to line their pockets. Its hard to trust anyone. Whats the most effective method?

Thanks
-Limary

Answer
Hi Limary:

Oh, this is a common problem... His immune system is most likely very low.  Steroid treatments can help but they LOWER the immune system even more.  The Demodex mites love a poor immune system.

A soothing bath, such as an oatmeal shampoo bath or a tar and sulfer shampoo bath might help with the itching. Antihistamines help a few dogs and aspirin is even helpful in some cases. Let your vet know the itching continues and if it is severe, definitely consider asking about referral to a veterinary dermatologist if that is possible in the area in which you live.

Asprin would be the 81 mg BABY asprin ( Bayer Brand )


Also, Goodwinol Ointment every night ...here is he link-
I believe you can buy this at many pet stores or on-line....
http://www.healthypets.com/goodwinol1lb.html



Also, an immune Booster like NuVET Plus - two wafers per day.

Most dogs need one per day-  Your baby would need 2 per day for at least 3 months .  Later on, you could lower to 1 wafer treat per day.

One wafer treat of NuVET Plus costs only .50 cents per day.

EXCELLENT product
Here is the Link
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html


Oh, one more thing..I would slowly change the food.  The one you are on is ok... There are many that are better for your pal.  I would like you to put him on Innova EVO -  Mix this with his food for about 4 weeks.  Do 1/2 your food ( amount) and 1/2 the New Innova Evo food.... Do a very slow transition.  EVO is 99% grain free.

Any Questions:  Just ask