Cheyletiella Mange In Dogs
Cheyletiella mange, also commonly referred to as “walking dandruff” is a highly contagious form of mange in dogs. Cheyletiella mange can affect dogs at any age. If your dog is not acting like its happy-go-lucky self, you may want to inspect him or her for the source of dog itching and hair loss. Below are various symptoms to look out for and home remedies that are known to work for dogs with walking dandruff.
Cheyletiella Mange Symptoms
Cheyletiella mange is caused by a larger than average mite, the red Cheyletiella mite. Because these mites are larger than others are, it is possible to see them under a magnifying glass when inspecting the affected area of your dog. Walking dandruff may be contagious; however, it is also short-lived. These mites have a very short lifespan and will generally die very shortly after they feed on the host.
The most common symptom is mild itching on or around the head and back. Dandruff may begin to form on the skin because of itching. It is also common to see visible inflammation and small swellings around the infested area.
It is important to know that mites are not species specific – that is, they are contagious to humans and other animals. They will infest other pets that comes in contact with the infestation without protection.
Treatment
Female mites can live off the host for several days, laying eggs and infesting the environment. Therefore, with a dog with Cheyletiella mange, not only should the dog be treated, but the bedding and environment where they dog lives as well.
The most common treatments for a dog with Cheyletiella mange are a selenium sulphide-based shampoos, ivermectin injections, and dips in pyrethrin, lime sulphur, or amitraz.
Home Remedies
While Cheyletiella mange is short-lived, it is still a good idea to treat the mange to ensure your dog is as comfortable as possible. If you have not diagnosed your pup yet, take a dog brush and brush the itchy area. If you place the flakes on a dark piece of paper and they are moving, these are mites.
Run a warm bath for your pup and use a trusted all-natural flea and tick shampoo. Natural tick shampoos also target mites. Once your dog is dry, apply a safe topical tick cream to the area to prevent further infestation, or even diatomaceous earth. Before you let your dog run around, make sure you clean your home thoroughly. Mites can live off the host for a few days and can infest your home as well – just waiting for your dog to return to begin feeding and reproducing again.
Mites are pesky little critters that can cause a lot of hassle. While mange is not life threatening, it is uncomfortable. Make sure you take all the steps necessary to treat Cheyletiella mange as soon as it is diagnosed. Once the infestation dies, your dog will be back to its normal self.
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