Ear mites are pests that can infect a dog's ears and make the poor dog feel uncomfortable. A dog may have itchy ears as a result of ear mites. Fortunately diagnosis and treatment is not difficult. With a bit of help your doggy can feel much better very soon.

ear mites in dogs

Three kinds of mites commonly infest dogs. Sarcoptic and demodectic mites burrow into their skin, causing mange. Ear mites inhabit their ear canals, inflaming the tissues and opening the door to bacterial infections.

Prescription and over-the-counter treatments for mites are available. Several effectively treat all three kinds of mites. You can adminster all of them, although in some cases you may have to give ivermectin by injection.

ear mites in dogs

Dogs can have ear infections just like people do. They also have other issues, such as ear mites. Both infections and mites can have long-term serious impacts on your dog if they are left untreated. Most groomers will include ear inspection and cleanings when you take your pet to be groomed, but it is important to clean your dog's ears at home, too.

ear mites in dogs

There are several types of mites that can invade the ear canals of cats. The same types of ear mites affect both cats and dogs. The most common type of ear mite is otodectes cynotis. Ear mites cause pruritis, or itching, of the ears, neck and head. Rarely, ear mites will bite humans, but they do not infest the human ear canal. Cats and dogs are the preferred hosts.

ear mites in dogs

Mange, caused by tiny microscopic bugs known as mites, affects both young and old dogs. The mites appear as small eight-legged spiders when observed under a microscope. Each type of mange is caused by a specific type of mite that lives on the surface of the dog and burrows into the skin, causing irritation, itching and pain. A veterinarian will diagnose mange by performing a physical exam on the dog and then obtaining skin scrapings to analyze under a microscope.

ear mites in dogs