How can you combat grass mites in dogs?
Ticks, fleas, and mites are among the pests every dog owner is familiar with. In addition to intense itching, these parasites can also cause severe skin inflammation. Among the most common mites in dogs are the autumn grass mite, also known colloquially as grass mites. In today's blog post, we'll explain how to effectively combat grass mites, how to relieve the itching, and how you can prevent an infestation.
From July until late autumn, grass mites lurk in wild meadows, in tall grasses, and even in your own garden . Close to the ground and well camouflaged, they wait for their next host. Unsuspecting, you stroll through their waiting areas while taking a leisurely walk with your four-legged friend. These are the places where they transfer to your dog's fur or even your legs.
Similar to fleas, autumn mites feed on the blood of their host. To do this, these orange-yellow crawling creatures burrow into the skin with their tiny mouthparts, and in particularly severe cases, even beneath it.
You can tell if your dog is affected by grass mites if he constantly scratches. The skin in this area is often very red. The fur falls out in the affected areas. In the worst case, inflammation may already be present.
Grass mites prefer to nest on the paws, legs, chest area, or even on the head of your four-legged friend. However, the ear canals or nasal cavities can also be infested with grass mites. Although the bite of a grass mite causes intense itching, it does not transmit diseases itself. It is your dog's scratching that can lead to serious infections and inflammation.
But how can autumn mites be effectively combated and how can the intense itching be relieved?
Treating skin problems caused by grass mites in dogs – How can mite infestation be prevented?
If you've discovered an infestation, you can remedy the situation by eliminating these little pests as quickly as possible. Actively combating and relieving the itching should be your priority. Our emmi-pet coat care set is very effective in helping you fight off parasites. Above all, it relieves the intense itching in your dog's coat. The gel included in the set has an antibacterial effect and promotes wound healing. Regularly applied to the affected areas, it can soothe the itching and prevent severe inflammation.
Don't forget that these little pests also hide in blankets, pillows, and dog beds. You can prevent re-infection by thoroughly cleaning and washing all items your dog uses. You can rid solid, non-washable items of grass mites with diluted alcohol or disinfectant (at least 70%).
In general, you can only prevent grass mite infestation in your dog if you avoid any outdoor activities during the summer and fall. This is impossible and hardly realistic for a dog owner. However, good hygiene in the apartment and house forms the basis for parasite defense. Frequent vacuuming, along with regularly washing dog blankets, pillows, and beds, is just as important for effective parasite defense as regular coat checks. By quickly and effectively combating the itching, you can prevent serious infections on the affected skin areas.
