Introduction
When you think of dust mites, you probably think of those little guys that hide in mattresses and carpets and are hard to find with the naked eye. They may be a sneezing nuisance for humans, but for dogs, they can be a lingering nightmare. Yes, dogs are allergic to dust mites!
Dust Mite Allergy in Dogs
When your fur child starts scratching, or when there is a bit of helpless moistness in his eyes, as an owner, are you not also worried about it? Don't worry, today we're going to talk about all the things that happen when your dog is allergic to dust mites - from the symptoms it can show, to how to treat and prevent it, to help you find your way back to relaxing and easy-going days with your pooch.
What happens to dogs when allergies come?
A dust mite allergy is no small thing, and it can make your dog uncomfortable from head to toe. Specifically, the symptoms usually fall into a few categories:
The most common is skin problems. Dogs may not be able to stop scratching, and the itching will not let them have a moment's peace. As they scratch, the skin becomes red and swollen, and in some places the fur even falls out, revealing thickened patches of skin that are hard to the touch. If the time is long, the pigmentation will also make these parts turn black, and it looks very painful.
In addition to the skin, dust mites can also “invade” your dog's respiratory tract. You may find that he suddenly sneezes like a small fountain, or coughs a few times, followed by snot flowing out. In more serious cases, you can even hear the sound of wheezing, the kind of rapid breathing that makes people feel breathless.
Then there's the eyes. Allergic dogs often have red eyes, like they've been crying. They will rub them with their paws, itching so much that they can't stop their tears. Who can't go soft when they see that look on their face?
These symptoms can occur alone or together. If your dog is exhibiting these symptoms, you may want to suspect that dust mites are at work.
How can I help my dog with allergies?
When you find out that your dog has allergies, the first thing you want to do is to make him feel better. Luckily, modern medicine and daily care have given us quite a few ways to do this.
Veterinarians usually prescribe medications to relieve the symptoms. For example, antihistamines, like chlorpheniramine maleate tablets, can help stop the itching and make your dog scratch less; if the inflammation is more serious, corticosteroids (such as prednisone) come in handy to quickly reduce the swelling and stop the pain. However, these drugs have side effects and should not be used casually, you have to listen to your doctor. There are also immune-modulating medications, such as cyclosporine or olaracinib, that get to the root of your dog's immune response. Newer options include cytokine inhibitors, such as Rocivirizumab, which specifically target the “drivers” of allergies, and are also very effective.
In addition to medication, topical treatments can also help your dog feel better. For example, Pepto Bismol Skin Spray can be sprayed on red and swollen areas to cool and relieve itching, while Zinc Oxide Ointment acts as a protective film to help repair the skin slowly. There are also shampoos designed specifically for allergies, which can be used in the bath to both clean and relieve the symptoms, and the dog's relaxed little expression when soaking in the water is really quite healing.
If you want to solve the problem more thoroughly, you can try allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT). Simply put, it's a way of slowly acclimatizing your dog to dust mites and reducing his sensitivity by administering an allergy vaccine or drops. It takes time and patience, but once successful, your dog will suffer a lot less.
While treating, the home can't be spared - after all, dust mites are hiding in your dog's daily life. How to get rid of them?
First of all, regular cleaning is a must. Use a vacuum cleaner with an allergen filter to vacuum dust mites from carpets and sofas. Your dog's mattress and toys should be washed regularly, and it's a good idea to put on an allergy-proof cover to keep dust mites away. Indoor humidity is also very critical, keep between 30% -50%, too humid dust mites will grow crazy, too dry and bad for the dog's skin. In addition, minimize the use of carpets and upholstered furniture, which are the “paradise” of dust mites. Finally, don't forget to brush your dog's coat regularly to minimize dander and let him enjoy your pampering.
Instead of waiting for allergies to set in, it's better to prevent them in advance. Keeping your dog's living environment clean is the first step. Diligent ventilation and less humidity will allow dust mites to breed less. Bathing is also a good idea. Use a hypoallergenic shampoo that is gentle and washes away potential allergens. If your dog is already showing signs of allergies, take him to the veterinarian quickly and don't put it off and let a small problem turn into a big one.
In case the symptoms persist and even get worse, it's time to ask your vet for further tests. It may be that allergens other than dust mites are at work, or that the treatment plan needs to be adjusted. After all, every dog is different, and finding what works best for him is the key.
A dog's allergy to dust mites sounds complicated, but as long as we are attentive and respond in a timely manner, they are perfectly capable of living a comfortable life. Imagine one.
Symptoms of Dust Mite Allergy in Dogs
Dogs are our faithful companions in life, and their tail-wagging and merriment always makes us smile. But sometimes, you may find your own furry children become not quite right - constantly scratching the body, and even quietly lying down to rest has become a luxury. This is probably not a simple skin problem, but a dust mite allergy at work. Dust mites, small creatures that are almost invisible to the naked eye and hide in inconspicuous corners of your home, can make your dog suffer. Today, we're going to talk about the symptoms of dust mite allergies in dogs to help you better understand your dog's health.
What are dust mites? Why do they make dogs allergic?
Dust mites are tiny arthropods that prefer warm, moist environments and often lurk in dust, carpets, sofas, mattresses and even your dog's sleeping pad. Feeding on human and animal dander, they reproduce rapidly, leaving behind feces and body parts that are the “culprits” of allergies. When a dog's immune system overreacts to these particles, allergy symptoms ensue. While each dog may react differently, there are some common signs that most pet owners can observe.
When it comes to dust mite allergies, there is nothing more disturbing than skin symptoms in dogs. Imagine that active little guy in the house suddenly starts scratching like crazy, like he's fighting something in his body. The most common areas are the abdomen, armpits, toes, ears and around the tail - these areas tend to have softer skin and are more likely to be the “hardest hit” by allergies. The skin may become red, swollen and even ooze a little, which is heartbreaking to watch.
If the dog scratches too hard, the hair will also suffer. Localized hair loss is common, and in severe cases the dog may even look “bald”. Worse yet, long-term allergies can leave the skin rough, thick, and dull in color, with a hard, unfamiliar feel that is no longer soft to the touch. Also, you may notice a lot more flakes on your dog's body, and when you gently pat it, it looks like a light snowfall. All of these are the skin's way of telling you that it's really uncomfortable!
Dust mite allergy is not just a “patent” of the skin, it can also enter the dog's respiratory tract to make trouble. Have you ever heard your dog sneeze several times in a row, mimicking a human cold? This is one of the classic signs of dust mite allergy. This may be followed by a cough, sometimes dry and “scratchy”, sometimes with a phlegmy sound that just doesn't sound right.
In more severe cases, the dog may even wheeze - a shortness of breath with a little “huffing and puffing” sound. The nose is not immune to this, and clear or thick snot may come out from time to time. Doesn't this sound like a copy of allergic rhinitis in humans? Yes, the respiratory symptoms of dogs are somewhat similar to ours, except that they don't complain and can only tell you with their actions: I am really suffering.
Don't think that dust mites are only a problem for the skin and respiratory tract, but also for your dog's eyes and ears. When allergies strike, your dog's eyes may be red like a rabbit's eye and swollen, looking watery not because they are touched but because they are uncomfortable. The itchiness makes them rub their paws, but the result is worse, the tears can not stop flowing, and some dogs will even leave ugly tear marks in the corner of the eye.
The ears are not much better. Your dog may scratch his ears frequently or cock his head as if he's trying to get rid of something nasty. Redness and swelling of the ear skin are common, and if an allergy causes an infection, you may smell an odor or even see yellowish discharge coming out of the ear canal. These “little problems” may not seem serious, but they can make your dog suffer even more if they are prolonged.
In addition to these obvious symptoms, dust mite allergies can also quietly affect your dog's overall condition. You may find that your normally active dog suddenly becomes irritable and has trouble getting a good night's sleep. Itching and discomfort follow it like a shadow, leaving it with no way to relax. In more severe cases, the dog doesn't even want to eat - imagine if you felt itchy all day long, would you still be in the mood for a feast? This loss of appetite is uncommon, but when it occurs, it often means that allergies have affected his quality of life.
How can I confirm that I have a dust mite allergy?
As you read this, you may already be muttering in your mind: my dog seems to have these symptoms, is it a dust mite allergy? Don't worry, the matter of confirming the diagnosis should be left to the professionals. If you suspect that your dog is allergic to dust mites, the best thing to do is to take him to the veterinarian. The doctor will start by talking to you about your dog's daily life: Is there carpet in the house? How often are the sheets washed? When did the symptoms start? These clues can help them pinpoint the problem.
Next, some tests may be done. For example, a skin test to see if your dog reacts to dust mites by scratching his skin or giving him a small injection, or a blood test to see if there are any antibodies against dust mites in his blood. If you're not sure, your veterinarian will also use the “elimination method” - checking for other possible allergens or diseases until you find the real “culprit”. This process is a bit of a pain in the ass, but it's worth the effort for your dog's health.
Once you've diagnosed a dust mite allergy, it's time to put your dog out of its misery. First, starting with the environment is key. Dust mites are most afraid of cleanliness, so regular vacuuming, washing sheets, and drying quilts are indispensable. If you have the means at home, you can try mite-proof mattress covers and furniture covers to block out dust mites' hiding places.
Medications can also come in handy. Antihistamines can stop the itching, corticosteroids can reduce swelling, and in severe cases immunomodulators can help adjust your dog's immune response. For a longer-term solution, try immunotherapy - allergy shots or drops that allow your dog to slowly adjust to dust mites and reduce the “fire” of allergies. And of course, don't forget to bathe your dog with a gentle hypoallergenic shampoo that cleanses the skin and relieves discomfort.
Dog allergies to dust mites, while common, are not a major dilemma. As long as you observe carefully, take it to the vet promptly when you find an abnormality, and with a little more cleaning and care at home, your dog will soon be back to its usual lively self. Those days of scratching, sneezing and redness will be a little farther away in your company. After all, for your dog, you are not only its owner, but also its most trusted “health guardian”. So the next time you see it scratching and can't stop, you might want to keep an eye out - maybe it's waiting for you to help it get rid of the dust mite “little monster”!
How to Get Rid of Dust Mites in A Room?
Dust mites hide in mattresses, under carpets, and even in the folds of curtains, so small that they are invisible to the naked eye, but can make sensitive people or pets sneeze and scratch. As the cleaning guardian of your home, wouldn't you like to get rid of these little guys and get your room back to freshness and safety? Do not worry, today we will talk about how to remove dust mites in the room - from cleaning to moisture, and then some practical tips to help you create a dust mites dare not come home.
To deal with dust mites, cleanliness is the foundation. Don't underestimate the daily cleaning, it is the first move to make dust mites pack away.
Carpets, sofas, curtains, these soft places are the “paradise” of dust mites. Pick up a vacuum cleaner at least once a week to clean up! It's best to use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, which is a “High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter” that sucks up dust mites and their feces without leaving a mess. After vacuuming, you will find that the room is much more refreshing.
Dry rags wipe, dust flying, but let the dust mites more arrogant. With a damp cloth to wipe the furniture, window sills, blinds, can be firmly “catch” the dust, do not give them the opportunity to turn. After wiping, hand wash the rag, next time to fight again.
A room full of clutter is like a “hideout party” for dust mites. Try organizing it, putting away things you don't use often, or simply sending them away. With a brighter space, dust mites have no place to hide.
Dust mites love humid environments, and when humidity is high, they multiply. To control humidity is to pinch their lifeblood.
Keeping the indoor humidity below 50% is a simple and effective way. Turn on the air conditioner in summer and use a dehumidifier in winter to dry out the air. Occasionally take a measurement with a hygrometer for a better idea.
Dust mites are happy when wet clothes are hung in a room and the water vapor disperses. Try to dry your clothes on the balcony or outdoors to keep the room dry and fresh, so the dust mites won't have a chance to sing.
The bed is our resting place, but it is also the favorite “base” of dust mites. Add some protection to the bedding, can make them deterred.
Mattresses, pillows, quilts, sets of anti-mite sets, as if they put on a layer of “protective clothing”. These covers are woven with a special process, the pores are so small that dust mites can not drill into, even their feces can not run out. Sleeping in such a bed, peace of mind and solid.
Sheets, quilt covers, pillowcases, wash once a week with hot water above 60 ℃, can directly put the dust mites scalded to death. After washing the sun, the fresh smell, even the mood has become better.
Those soft decorations at home, although it looks cozy, but may be the dust mite “hotbed”. Properly do some subtraction, the effect is immediate.
Carpets and fabric furniture are comfortable, but the ability to hide dirt is also first-class. Switch to hard flooring and leather sofas, not only good cleaning, dust mites have nowhere to land. The home is instantly refreshed.
Heavy fabric curtains are the dust mite's “lair”, so why not replace them with machine washable thin curtains or blinds. Dirty thrown into the washing machine, both worry-free and clean.
Some things are not good to wash, but can not let the dust mites overrun, how to do? Try these tips.
Small rugs and pillows, throw them in the hot water and wash them, or send them to the dry cleaner, which will clean up the dust mites. Shake after washing, feel a few points lighter.
What if you can't wash your child's or pet's favorite stuffed animal? Put it in a Ziploc bag, put it in the freezer for 48 hours, and the dust mites will freeze to death. Take it out and shake it, and you can play with them again.
Allergens from dust mites float in the air, and if you breathe them in, you will sneeze easily. Improving air quality can make breathing easier.
An air purifier with a HEPA filter will catch the dust mite allergens in the air. Especially people with allergies or pets, open it, the nose are much more comfortable.
Opening the windows every day to change the air can blow away the indoor allergens. Ventilate for a quarter of an hour in the morning when the sun is good, the air is fresh and the dust mites are less arrogant.
Finally, there are a few tips that can make your “dusting program” more perfect.
Vacuuming and dusting, dust mites may “rebound”. Wear a mask to keep them out of your nose and save yourself from sneezing.
Damp and cold basements are a “paradise” for dust mites. Try to arrange the bedroom in the upstairs, dry environment so that they have nowhere to go.
Getting rid of dust mites in your room sounds like a big job, but it really starts with the little things. Vacuuming, damp-proofing, changing bedding - every step of the way, you're taking a load off your home and adding to the health of your family and pets. If after all this, someone is still sneezing and scratching, then it's more reliable to find a doctor to check for allergens and target treatment.
