How Do You Get Rid of Mites on a Dog

Mites on your dog are unpleasant, not just for the dog but for you as well. These little parasites will increase your pet’s skin and cause mange, a dreadful skin disease that will lead to further health problems and serious discomfort. Fortunately, there are several natural remedies that you can apply in your bid to get rid of them.

What Are Mites?

Mites are parasites that belong to the arachnid family. As a cousin of the spider’s, you can be sure that mites are hardy and can be found pretty much everywhere, particularly in your home and on your pets. Two species are harmful to dogs, and these blood-sucking parasites are the Sarcoptic mite and Demodectic mite. The former is very contagious and will affect humans, so if you find any trace or symptom of this species in your home or on your pet, you have to react swiftly before the problem gets out of hand. Even casual contact should be a cause for alarm, so do not take it lightly. As for the Demodectic mite is not contagious to humans and is a natural inhabitant on every dog. These mites are easily transferred from dog to dog and generally do not cause any problems. However, if its population gets out of control and if your dog has a weak immune system, its presence will cause your dog great discomfort and, ultimately, manage.

What Are the Symptoms Of Mites?

As a dog owner, you should be relatively skilled when noticing problems with your pet. Ticks and fleas are easy to pinpoint as they are visible to the naked eye. However, mites are minuscule, so you have to look out for symptoms, such as mange. Although some dogs may react differently to mites than others, some obvious signs can give you a clear cut indication that your precious pooch has a severe problem. These include, but are not limited to:

• Hair Loss that Happens in Patches
• Reddened Skin
• Rashes and Sores
• Bad Odour
• Chronic Itching
• Obvious Discomfort

How Do You Get Rid of Mites on a Dog

Although the first person you will turn to for help is your veterinarian, sometimes that may not be the best option. This is because those in the medical profession tend to favour conventional chemical-based treatments that, in the long run, are not very effective and may be detrimental to your pet’s health. If you have already tried these chemically laced options to no avail, or if you prefer taking the natural and holistic route, here are some great options for you to treat your dog’s manage.

1. Yogurt

This dairy product doubles up as a breakfast option and manages buster. All you need are two tablespoons of natural plain yogurt. It is recommended that you use this remedy on the inside of your pet’s mange infested ears. Gently rub the yogurt on the affected areas and rinse it out at the end of the day.

2. Lemon Juice

The high acidic content in lemons will work wonders for getting rid of these microscopic parasites. Not only that, the juice will help heal your dog’s damaged skin. All you have to do is boil a pot of water, slice up a lemon and soak the wedges in hot water. Leave the concoction to sit overnight and the next day, thoroughly sponge your dog with the mixture.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Perfect not just for weight loss, apple cider vinegar is also a great natural remedy to combat mites and mange. It will treat the infection and reduce redness and itchiness. Mix one tablespoon of the vinegar with your dog’s food daily, and do so for a couple of weeks until you achieve positive results.

4. Organic Honey

If you want to use honey to treat mange, ensure that your dog is wearing an Elizabethan collar. This is to prevent it from licking the honey off its skin. All you have to do is slather a thin layer of natural honey onto your dog’s infected areas and let it air dry. It will soothe and nourish the infected areas, giving your great pet relief from all that painful itching and scratching.

5. Oil

Pick a type of pure vegetable oil and get to work getting rid of the mites. All you have to do is soak a clean sponge in a bowl of oil and rub your dog with it. The oil will cut off the mites’ air supply, eventually killing them. It will also soften the wax-like deposits and scabs left behind by the mites, relieving your dog of endless scratching and discomfort.

6. Garlic

If garlic can stave off bloodsucking vampires, it will work against bloodsucking mites too. Add a chopped teaspoon or so of this anti-parasitic food and add it to your dog’s meal. It will help heal wounds and improve overall immune function. Remember not to go overboard with this, as excessive amounts will irritate your dog’s stomach.

7. Fresh Food

You will be surprised at how effective the ingestion of fresh foods can be in combating dog mites and the mange caused by them. Opting to feed your pet raw foods that are high in vitamins and minerals instead of processed pet food will help speed up the healing process. Like humans, dogs need proper nutrition to build up a strong immune system to properly fight off diseases and health threats. Speak to your vet about making the switch from conventional dog food to an all-natural diet.

8. Clean The Area

As with getting rid of any parasite lingering around your home and on your pets, keep your space clean, especially the area where your dog usually sleeps at. There is no point attempting to get rid of parasitic mites if your dog’s bedding is infested with it. Throw out his old set and purchase a new one. Ensure that you thoroughly wash it once a week to prevent an infestation.