What are lice on dogs? - briefly
Canine lice are tiny, wingless insects that inhabit a dog’s fur and skin, feeding on blood or skin debris. Their presence leads to itching, irritation, and can predispose the animal to secondary infections.
What are lice on dogs? - in detail
Lice are small, wing‑less insects that live on the skin and coat of dogs. Two species are commonly encountered: Trichodectes canis, a chewing louse that feeds on skin debris, and Linognathus setosus, a sucking louse that extracts blood. Both complete their life cycle on the host, progressing from egg (nit) to nymph to adult within a few weeks.
Infestation manifests as itching, visible crusts, hair loss, and a ragged coat. In severe cases, secondary bacterial infections develop, especially where the skin is irritated. Diagnosis relies on direct examination of hair and skin scrapings under magnification; live lice or nits confirm the presence of parasites.
Effective control includes:
- Topical insecticides (e.g., fipronil, selamectin) applied according to label directions.
- Oral systemic agents (e.g., ivermectin, milbemycin oxime) for broader parasite coverage.
- Thorough grooming to remove detached insects and environmental decontamination, such as washing bedding in hot water and vacuuming carpets.
Prevention strategies focus on maintaining hygiene, regular veterinary checks, and avoiding contact with infested animals. Lice are host‑specific; they do not transmit to humans, but they can spread quickly among dogs sharing the same environment. Prompt treatment eliminates the infestation and reduces the risk of skin complications.