Have you recently observed your dog acting out of character or lethargic? There is a chance that he might have an allergy towards dust mites. Don’t worry, it is curable and not harmful at all. Hypersensitive reactions towards dust mites are a frequent issue faced by dog owners nowadays. If you act on it fast considering the symptoms shown by your dog and work on preventative measures your dog can be saved from the health repercussions of dust mites.
House dust mites (Dermatophagoides farina) are microscopic spider like bugs that’s ubiquitous in nature. They consume human and animal dander, scales of the skin and hair flakes. They are mostly present in couches, carpets, beds, mattresses, and even the pet bedding. Because of the ideal temperature and relative humidity in homes, these dust mites can thrive there
Signs and Symptoms Observed due to Dust Mite Allergies
The body parts and excretions of dust mites are what causes dust mite reactions in dogs. Dust mite allergies can affect canines of any species, gender, or age. However, dogs older than three months and French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, German Shepherds, Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers, Setters, and Terriers are the breeds most usually affected by dust mite allergy. There are so many signs and symptoms observed in a dog suffering from dust might allergies. That is;
- Excessive licking
- Excessive scratching
- Watery eyes
- Redness in the nose and eyes
- Runny nose
- Dry skin
- Coughing and sneezing
- Breathing difficulties (breathes better outdoors)
- Snoring due to breathing difficulties
- Inflammation of skin and irritation
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- If you observe any such symptoms in your dog, it is advisable to take your dog to a veterinarian before these symptoms get even worse.
How to Diagnose Dust Mite Allergies?
It can be challenging to diagnose a dog with a dust mite allergy. It can mimic a variety of different illnesses, including food intolerances or parasitic skin abnormalities. Therefore, it’s essential to see the veterinarian before beginning a treatment regimen.
Your pet will be examined by the vet, and will also ask few questions from you. He/she will ask questions like;
- How long have the symptoms been prevalent?
- Is there any pattern observed?
- Does your dog have other allergies caused by allergens?
- At what time does the symptoms get worse?
Then the veterinarian might do a thorough check up of the dog to see if the dog has any other observable skin conditions. Then if needed for further diagnosis, the vet might suggest you to do some tests like a complete blood count, electrolyte level, urinalysis etc.
But you should contact your vet and have the dog examined for a dust mite hypersensitivity if your dog is fine outside but uncomfortable inside, and if the itching becomes severe during or after dusting. Therefore, for further accurate testing the veterinarian might suggest specific tests like serum allergen test or intradermal allergy test. The intradermal allergy test is conducted by a dermatologist and is considered the most accurate test to diagnose dust mite allergies. But this test is a bit expensive when compared to others. Basically, the dermatologist will shave a small portion on your dog in the side and inject different types of allergens and see if there are any reactions shown.
Treatment
Antihistamines, corticosteroids and topical ointments like cortisone cream or gel are a few therapeutic medications for allergies in dogs.
If none of these medications were successful the vet might suggest immunotherapy injections. Similar to human allergy shots, these injections tend to be beneficial but can take a while to take effect. The vet will demonstrate you how to progressively desensitize your dog against dust mites by injecting it with an increasing amount of allergen each day. The drawback of this approach is that it may take several months of injections for your dog to become completely desensitized or there is a chance that this might not work too. Additionally, these injections have the ability of causing anaphylaxis, a dangerous reaction that can be life-threatening.
If this issue occurs, your vet may give you an epinephrine injection to inject into your dog to neutralize the reactions.
Then finally a shampoo and an antibiotic may also be recommended in order to stop the infection, reduce itching and to get the skin back to normal state.
9 Ways to Prevent Dust Mite Allergies.
The ideal flooring options are bare floors like hardwood, vinyl, or tile. In carpeting, the mites can thrive.
When constructing the dog’s bedding, only use synthetic fabrics. Stuffing made of feathers, horsehair or wool should not be used.
Frequently wash the dogs bedding with hot water and allow them to dry well before using.
During the summer, use air conditioners to regulate the temperature. Ensure that you keep the humidity at around 40%.
Filters for air conditioner should be changed often. Dust mites are more successfully filtered out by electrostatic filters.
Sweep the floors with a wet mop, then dust them off on a daily basis. After vacuuming, make sure the space is properly ventilated.
Groom your dog more often, preferably outside the home in a well-ventilated place if at all possible.
Regularly vacuum rugs, carpets, and furniture in the house.
Give your dog a good bath more often.
Conclusion
Controlling dust or dust mite byproducts is crucial if your dog is easily susceptible to allergies. By doing this, you will minimize the possibility that your dog will develop allergies and require costly treatments that might have long-term negative effects on your dog. Therefore, its always better to look for symptoms in your dog and if noticed its better to consult a veterinarian. Keeping your house dust free and hygienic is essential to reduce the dust mite threat. Taking your dog on regular walks is better for the dog and your mind relaxation too which in turn is beneficial for the dogs health.
FAQ
What’s a dust mite?
Dust mites (Dermatophagoides farina) are microscopic spider like bugs that’s ubiquitous in nature. They consume human and animal dander, scales of the skin and hair flakes.
Where are dust mites mostly present?
They are mostly present in couches, carpets, beds, mattresses, and even the pet bedding.
What are some breeds of dogs that are most susceptible to dust mite allergies?
French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs, German Shepherds, Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers, Setters, and Terriers are the breeds most usually affected by dust mite allergy
