Lice can afflict dogs and puppies of any age.
Lice are tiny insects that either bite or suck the blood of mammals. There are several species of lice that normally are associated with dogs or puppies. In the worst cases, the lice can draw enough blood from the puppy to cause anemia. There are several treatments for lice in puppies and dogs.
Bathing
Puppies should be bathed with pyrethrin shampoos. Pyrethrin is an insecticide that will kill all the lice on the puppy. After the puppy is dried, a pyrethrin powder or spray can be applied. This procedure should be repeated every two weeks to eliminate the lice that hatch from eggs after each bath.
Diet
Feed the puppy a balanced and complete diet. Check fecal samples for any signs of other species of parasites and deworm if necessary.
Treating the Symptoms of Lice
The most common symptom of lice is itching which can be very uncomfortable for the puppy. Vitamin C supplements and topical anti-itching creams can provide some relief for the puppy but don't eliminate the lice.
Commercial Lice Treatment
There are commercial product available for the treatment of lice and fleas in dogs. Follow label instructions for the treatment of puppies.
Non-Chemical Treatment of Lice
Dipping the puppy in a mixture of lime and sulfur is effective and safe. Disadvantages include a temporary yellowing of the fur and a sulfur smell.
Treat the Whole House
If lice are discovered on a puppy all pets in the house should be treated and the bedding areas of the animals washed in hot soapy water.
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