How to Get Rid of Dust Mites On Dogs. Just like humans, animals also have allergies. Dust mites are one of the common causes of allergic reactions in humans, dogs, and cats.
These microscopic bugs are found in almost every home. Let’s be clear, having dust mite is not a matter of hygiene. These intruders are found even in the cleanest homes.
As much as we would like to completely eradicate them, it is almost impossible. However, we can reduce the amount of exposure and manage the symptoms to attain quality life.
So, how do I get rid of dust mites on dogs? Unfortunately, most allergic reactions towards dust animals go unnoticed or are misdiagnosed.
Because of their small size, many pet owners don’t realize the extent of damage they have on their dogs. As a result, most mite allergies go untreated.
What Causes Mite Allergy to Dogs?
Immunity system plays a vital role in fighting diseases and infections. A good immunity system identifies and eliminates a potential threat, hence keeping your pet healthy.
However, an immune system can wrongly identify certain substances as a threat. Thereby resulting in a negative response called an allergic reaction.
Dust mites cause allergy in dogs and people by releasing a particular type of protein. This protein comes from the feces and dead body parts of dust mites. Disgusting, right?
Dust mites live in warm and moist conditions such as bedding, carpets, or upholstery. Unfortunately, when you decide to share your homes with your dogs, it is likely to be exposed to dead dust mites.
Although it is unlikely for the dog to develop allergy the first time it encounters the allergen, continuous exposure will trigger the immune system to react to it.
Symptoms of Dust mite Dog Allergy
When the feces or dust mites, dead or alive, gets in the skin or in the lungs, you will notice the following symptoms in your dog. However, the symptoms vary depending on the dog.
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Increased scratching
- Runny eyes
- Excessive licking
- Difficulty in breathing
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Thick crusty or moist coat if left untreated
All dogs, regardless of their gender, breed, or age, can develop dust mite allergy. However, some are more prone to attacks than others. They include:
- Retrievers
- Terriers
- Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Dogs over three months
- Setters
- German shepherds
- Miniature schnauzer
Diagnosis of Dust Mite Allergies On Dogs
Making the correct diagnosis of dust mites allergy on dogs can be challenging. This is because the symptoms are similar to many other conditions like food and parasite allergies. For this reason, you should seek a professional diagnosis for effective treatment.
Your vet will perform a physical test for vital signs and ask questions about the symptoms, like when they occur. Specific tests can also be done to diagnose a dust allergy. In a serum test, a blood sample is taken to check for signs of allergy presence. An intradermal test is the most accurate for allergens, though it is quite expensive. Be sure to mention that the dog is okay when it is outside and that the condition is present all year round. This will help the vet to narrow down the possible allergens.
Treatment in Dogs with Dust Allergies
Once you get your diagnosis, the next step of how to get rid of dust mites on dogs is proper medication. Your vet may recommend various medication options to manage the symptoms, depending on the severity of the situation. You should be aware that some options are riskier than others in terms of the side effects. Some of the common medications include; antihistamines, corticosteroids, topical ointment, antibiotics, and hypoallergenic shampoos to treat the skin.
Immunotherapy shots
Although this treatment may take longer to desensitize your dog to dust mites, it has proven useful to allergy issues. The main problem is that it can result in a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition. The vet can give you an epinephrine pen to inject your dog in the event of such an emergency.
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Tips of How to Get Rid of Dust Mites On Dogs
While it is impossible to completely get rid of dust mites on your dog or home, there are effective ways to significantly reduce them.
Vacuum regularly
Use a vacuum with a high-quality filter to clean your home at least once a week. Not only does the process remove dust mites that could cause allergy, but it also reduces the available skin cells that the bugs eat.
Air out fabrics
One of the effective ways to remove mites from beddings and clothing is to put them under direct sunlight. Leave them outside for up to 12 hours and then vacuum them thoroughly.
Also, air conditioning helps to control humidity. Aim to maintain the humidity levels between 30-50%. This is where dehumidifiers come in handy.
Dog grooming
Since dogs absorb the allergens through their skin, it is essential to regularly bathe your dog. This move prevents the dust mites on the fur from making contact with the skin. Use special shampoos to relieve itchiness.
Wash beddings in hot water
Dust mites thrive in carpets as well as beddings. Therefore, you should wash your dog’s bedding in at least 130 degrees F weekly.
Replace upholstery and floor covers
Dust mites love the deep covers of fibres. Their microscopic size allows them to penetrate deeper into warm locations. Replace these surfaces with leather, hard floors, and vinyl to reduce their quantity.
If you can’t afford to throw your carpets, steam clean them weekly to kill dust mites and other bacteria. This option is more effective than vacuuming.
Change the dog’s bed material.
Using micro-porous bed covers goes a long way in improving your dog’s symptoms. Avoid wool, feathers, or horsehair stuffing.
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Final Remarks
When you are working on how to get rid of dust mites on your dog, it is crucial to note that your pet cannot be cured of the allergy.
However, the treatment options and measures you put in place will improve the symptoms of dust mite allergy. The recovery period can take a few months up to a year, depending on the dog.
Consult with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s health.
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