Mites cause an array of problems in dogs with weakened immune systems, including parasitic, bacterial and fungal infections; fleas and tick infestation; yeast infections; bacterial dermatitis and ringworm. All of these conditions can result in uncomfortable skin irritations such as hotspots, rashes, allergic hives and eczema.
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Types
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Dogs can potentially host three types of mites: sarcoptic, demodectic and cheyletiella. The mites cause severe skin problems that lead to mange when they infest and hatch eggs beneath a dog's epidermis.
Identification
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Demodectic mites are common to all dogs and are only able to burrow and infiltrate the skin in animals with compromised immune systems. Cheyletiella mites result in milder symptoms such as itching and skin tenderness that resembles dandruff. Sarcoptic mites lead to scabies infection, which is a heightened form of mange that can spread to humans.
Effects
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Mites cause symptoms of severe itching and discomfort in dogs, typically resulting in visible signs of pink, red or black skin discolorations, flaky and dry skin resembling eczema, scabs and patches of hair loss.
Warning
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As mites move within the skin, dogs may begin to self-mutilate through intense scratching, paw licking, skin gnawing and nervous chewing or ingestion of foreign objects to distract from the pain.
Prevention/Solution
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Chances of a mite infestation decrease by grooming and bathing a dog regularly with hypoallergenic shampoos; treating allergies and existing conditions with oral or topical antihistamines, antibiotics and immunizations; and providing a dog with enzymes and probiotics to strengthen the immune system. Dogs with serious cases of mites and mange require veterinary attention at the onset for prescription antibiotics and shots.
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