There's nothing out of the ordinary about a dog itching their ears — especially if they're due for a grooming appointment. But, if your pup has clean ears and is still excessively scratching, ear mites may be the cause. Veterinarian and pet health advocate Dr. Aliya McCullough explains how to fight against these pesky arachnids and get your pup the relief they deserve.
Ear mites are highly contagious arachnids that live on the surface of the skin and in the ear canal. They can affect any dog breed but usually latch to puppies and young adult dogs. Ear mites can strike at any time, temperature or season, so it’s important to always be ready to handle these insects.
Dogs can get ear mites from other infected dogs and cats. If you think your pup may be suffering from ear mites, talk to your vet immediately to prevent spreading them to other animals.
Here are some common signs your pup may have ear mites:
Ear mites look similar to ticks, however, they’re much smaller (almost microscopic). They have a circular body with little legs that extend outward.
It takes ear mites only 3 weeks to evolve from an egg to an adult, and once they’ve reached maturity, ear mites live for 2 months and reproduce continually, so it’s important to start treatment ASAP. Talk to your vet to establish a treatment game plan for your pup. Your veterinarian will most likely recommend an oral medication and topical skin or ear treatment.
You can ask your vet about ways to prevent ear mites, too. There are topical flea prescriptions that work as preventative measures.
Not only are ear mites contagious to other pets, there’s a high chance that human family members can also get them. That’s why it’s imperative that your pup gets treated immediately.
Now, when you notice that your pup has been continually scratching their ears, you’ll know how to quickly relieve your dog. And you’ll also be able to protect your other pets and family members, too.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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