Demodex mites, also known as walking dandruff, are common among dogs. Although this type of mange can sometimes become problematic for an otherwise healthy pup, usually its population remains under control thanks to his immune system.
Laboratory analysis of deep skin scrapings is usually necessary to diagnose demodicosis. Prescription medicine will often be needed for its treatment.
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Symptoms
Depending on the type of mite, symptoms may include hair loss, itching, skin changes and other health concerns in dogs. Sometimes the itching can become severe enough to cause distress and reduce quality of life for affected pets.
Mites are tiny insects with hard exoskeletons resembling spider webs. While most usually remain attached to their host animal, mites can sometimes spread and cause itchy skin symptoms in humans and other dogs alike. Sarcoptic mange mites (the ones responsible for scabies in people) may even infest people and lead to itchy symptoms that result in diseased skin patches.
Diet and hygiene practices can play an essential role in helping to prevent mite infestation. A balanced diet gives your dog access to essential nutrients needed for strong immunity that can fight mites on its skin, so your vet can advise on an ideal plan based on his/her condition and age.
Diagnosis
Mites cannot typically be detected with the naked eye; adults of certain mite species such as Scabies (Demodex) and Cheyletiella (demodex and ear mite) look like tiny black or white dots on skin and require a microscope for identification.
Your veterinarian will identify which species of mites have infected your dog and develop a tailored treatment plan accordingly. Treatment could involve topical medications or shampoo, oral medication or antibiotics if any infections exist underneath.
Dogs with compromised immune systems are particularly prone to mite infestation, while young puppies still developing immune systems due to close contact with their mothers during the first weeks after birth are more prone. Furthermore, overcrowded living environments such as animal shelters or puppy mills create even greater chances for direct contact between infested animals and potential infested individuals – your vet can suggest various supplements which support an active and robust immune system in your pet.
Treatment
There is a range of medications that can be used to treat mites in dogs. Your veterinarian will suggest the one most suited to treating your pup and his or her specific symptoms.
Your best bet in protecting your dog from mites is to limit his or her contact with places known to harbor them, such as animal shelters and grooming establishments. Since this isn’t always feasible, an alternative approach would be regularly washing bedding, plush toys, rugs, collars, leashes and any other items used by your pup that might contain mites in order to reduce direct contact between these items and mites present on them.
Dogs living in overcrowded living conditions with weak immune systems and compromised defenses are particularly prone to mite infestations, while puppies in particular are particularly prone since their immune systems are still developing and more likely to pick up mites from both birthing mothers and other infested puppies. This puts puppies at increased risk of mite infestation in early life.
Prevention
The most effective way to avoid mites in pets is keeping them away from other dogs, thus eliminating transmission risk. Unfortunately, however, this may not always be possible; for example, if your pup frequently interacts with animals at grooming or boarding facilities it could become exposed to mites and must therefore be protected accordingly.
If you suspect your dog has a mite infestation, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian immediately. Multiple conditions can have similar symptoms; therefore it is vital that a definitive diagnosis be made by your vet prior to beginning any treatment – this may involve conducting skin scrapes and blood work to confirm what they’re treating correctly.
Mites can usually be prevented with anti-parasitic shampoo prescribed by your veterinarian. Regular bathing sessions should also help ensure the skin remains free from debris that contributes to mite infestation and the growth of mites.
