The Mighty Demodex Mite

Tags: dogs, pets, diseases, demodex

There exists a wide array of dog skin diseases caused by all kinds of parasites, bacteria, and mites – one in particular having disgusting symptoms would be caused by the Demodex mite. They can be found in many dogs in certain areas. It can also be hereditary, and transferred during the breeding process.

When this mite attaches itself to the skin of the canine, it'll eventually spread and have disgusting looking effects on your pooch – this dog disease is known as Demodicosis. Basically, there are three types in which the ailment stated above may come in, the first one being Juvenile Demodicosis. Its kind usually effects dogs below 2 years of age, but is commonly seen in puppies.

This type is much easier to cure and has less “devastating effects”. It may come with pus oozing out of its skin; that coupled with an unusual redness plus swelling in some areas of its feet - this condition is known as erythema. The condition known as hyper pigmentation would most likely follow the first horrid symptom – this is an ailment where there are too many pigments appearing on its skin and the darkening of some areas of the body.

The second type of disease that a Demodex mite could cause is Localized Demodicosis – this type of infection pertains to the forehead and limb. The age group that is most commonly affected are puppies aging 3 to 6 months. The first sign of its presence would be patches of hair loss around the said areas (forehead and limb) - that's why it's called the “localized” type.

Abnormal redness and swelling in the effected areas are also to be expected, as well as hyperpigmentation. According to statistics, the chances of an infected pet getting better on its own without the aid of treatment is 11%. That means there's an 89% chance that you'll have to bring it to the veterinarian for a thorough diagnosis of the ailment and for treatment to be prescribed.

The third type of infection rendered by the awesome Demodex mite would be the Generalized Demodicosis – this is the most serious one of all. This kind is also the most disgusting one of all – a condition known as pyoderma, will occur all over your pet's skin. The ailment is the formation of ulcers on its body (deep open wounds).

Crusting of your pet's skin will also follow, as well as hyper pigmentation and hair loss occurring all over its body. Cells and tissue will die, eventually worsening the problem, which can be painful for the poor pooch and an eyesore to its owner. There are actually some reports of this type caused by the wicked Demodex mite that killed some dogs.

If you notice the symptoms happening to your pet, immediately pay your veterinarian a visit. There are treatments available for the skin disorder, so there's nothing much to worry about. My dog had a similar disease in which I believed to be caused by the Demodex mite. My failure to act led to the demise of my beloved pooch, a mistake I live with even today.

If you love your pet, and value the importance of maintaining dog health, then you won't make the same mistake that I did.

About the author

Alex De La Cruz is a successful Dog Trainer who has been advising and coaching dog owners for many years. Alex now decided to share his knowledge through this site, Doggyweb.info. You can sign up for his free weekly newsletter and learn how to keep your dog healthy and happy.

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