New approaches to the treatment of canine demodicosis

Canine demodicosis is a common parasitic dermatosis that is sometimes difficult to treat. Although the use of topical amitraz has considerably improved the prognosis of the disease, many cases still prove resistant or intolerant to this licensed product. Recent advances in the systemic treatment of generalized canine demodicosis indicate that daily oral administration of ivermectin, milbemycin oxime, and moxidectin are very efficacious. Although these drugs are not licensed in dogs for this use, they can offer viable alternatives to the management of difficult cases.