Mites: All About “Chiggers”

 
Chiggers, although very hard to detect, can be a severe nuisance when they come in contact with human skin or dog skin.  The resulting irritation can be very unpleasant.

A chigger is actually a type of mite.  They are mites that are usually orange, red, or yellow in color.  A larval chigger (mite) feeds on dogs and other animals.  Their host’s blood enables them to grow and mature into nymphs. 

The nymphs then develop into adult chiggers or larger mites that lay eggs and begin the cycle over again.  The adult chigger (mite) feeds on plants, therefore the larvae are usually found in wooded areas.

These type of mites can be found in almost any part of the dog’s body, although they most often settle toward the head, neck, ear canals, ear flaps, and abdomen. 

Consult with your vet if you think your pet encounters this unusual type of mite.  He or she will probably a type of insecticidal preparation to the affected areas as well as prescribe an antibiotic steroid cream to soothe the itching and bring down the swelling.

Ticks: How to remove a tick

Ticks are creepy little insects that cause irritation and disease to both humans and animals.  To prevent ticks from becoming a problem, tick repellents are widely available and very effective.  In locations where ticks are abundant, see your vet and ask for recommendations on a good insecticidal bathing or dipping.

The chances of acquiring Lyme disease depends on the length of time the tick is attached to your flesh.  The best way of minimizing the risk of infection is to take it immediately. 

This type of tick looks very similar to a mole or a blood blister.  Ticks are black and some female ticks are dark red, and all ticks turn gray and blow up when filled with blood.

To remove a tick, grab the exposed part of its body near the dog’s skin with tweezers or forceps.  Very gently, pull it with a smooth, steady pressure.  Try not to pull the tick with your fingers because it could be carrying a disease that is toxic to you. 

Do not be concerned if the tick’s mouth parts or head get stuck in the dog’s skin.  Leftover parts will not poison your dog, although it may cause a temporary and minor irritation.  Rubbing antiseptic on the bitten area after removing the tick will help prevent the inflammation.  Avoid contact with the tick...



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