SUCCESSFUL MANAGEMENT OF GENERALIZED DEMODICOSIS IN A GERMAN SHEPHERD

Abstract

Demodicosis is a common, inflammatory parasitic skin disease of dogs caused by the excessive multiplication of the mite, Demodex spp, within the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. The disease has three forms: localized, juvenile-onset generalized, and adult-onset generalized demodicosis. Successful management of this disease requires prolonged therapy due to its cell-mediated immunosuppressive nature. This case report presents a male German shepherd dog aged 1.5 years which presented with severe exudative skin lesions over the body surface. Laboratory examination of the dog's skin scraping revealed the presence of Demodex canis mite and spindle-shaped eggs of D. canis, leading to the diagnosis of generalized demodicosis. The treatment plan consisted of oral ivermectin and topical application of amitraz on the dog followed by a benzyl peroxide shampoo bath to control secondary bacterial infection. The therapy resulted in significant improvement with the moist lesions and scales disappeared, and no presence of mites on deep skin scraping. The length of D. canis body was measured, and the mean total body length of D. canis was 212 ± 12.81 μm, agreeing with previous studies. The document also discusses the life cycle of Demodex canis mite, diagnosis, and management of canine demodicosis. The case report aims to provide insights to veterinary professionals and researchers in the field of veterinary parasitology in the management of demodicosis.