A Wondercide Story: The Merciless Might of Mites
Mites are to dogs what the common cold is to humans: contagious and prevalent enough that most dogs have experienced it. Not all cases of mites are problematic. In fact, most infestations occurring among puppies resolve themselves. These microscopic, transparent, crab-like parasites are just a part of life. But there are certain types of mite infestations that can cause skin irritation and result in more serious health complications if left untreated. Even dogs who are well-cared for can develop mite infestations that will become harmful if left unmanaged.
Symptoms of Canine Nasal Mites in Dogs
Depending on the severity and whether or not the respiratory system is affected, any or all of the following signs may be present. The greater the infestation of nasal mites, the more severe the signs are. It is important to know that sometimes there are no signs present.
Types
There is only one species of canine nasal mite; Pneumonyssoides Caninum. The stages of the nasal mite include the egg, larva, nymph, and adult stage. All stages of the nasal mite are found in the sinuses and nasal passages of the dog. Although the mites are easily transmitted from dog to dog, they cannot be transmitted to humans.
Symptoms of Dog Mites
Regardless of what type of mite is hitching a ride on your dog, the symptoms can be bothersome, uncomfortable, and even painful. Here are some signs that will help you identify the presence of mites:
- Intense itchiness expressed in scratching, biting, licking, rubbing on furniture
- Scaly or crusty skin
- Inflammation and redness
- Sores
- White flakes
- Oily, smelly substance
- Hair loss
- Lesions on the elbow and ankles
- Raw skin
- Shaking the head and scratching the ears (ear mites)
- Black or dark brownish-red residue (ear mites)
- Obstruction of ear canal (ear mites)
If you don’t address mites promptly it can lead to more serious complications. Dogs who excessively shake their heads, whether due to ear mites or an ear infection, can develop a hematoma (or swelling of blood) in the brain. Infections can also occur with prolonged skin irritation. Some of the worst symptoms occur as the result of self-trauma out of reaction to the itching and discomfort; incessant ear scratching can result in damage to the ear canal. If you think your dog may have a mite infestation/mange, visit a holistic vet who can recommend care that will unearth the root of the issue rather than simply treat its symptoms. Sometimes symptoms of other health issues appear similar to mites and mange. Be sure to pause and make sure you’re addressing the right underlying cause before treating the ears for ear mites. Inflammation and irritation alone could signal that a foreign object is lodged in the ear. Once you’ve ruled out mites and an obstruction, the remaining cause could be a bacterial infection, yeast, chiggers, fleas, or even an allergic reaction. Symptoms that indicate the presence of ear mites — such as head tilting, head rubbing, and ear residue — may actually indicate an ear infection. The color of the residue usually differs; ear infection discharge is usually more of a rusty color rather than black. If you’re dealing with an issue such as an infection, yeast, bacteria, or fleas, Wondercidee has an ear treatment and skin spray that can help: .
FAQ
How do I get rid of mites on my dog naturally?
What are symptoms of nasal mites in dogs?