Overview
Lice (Pediculosis), and dog lice symptoms such as skin irritation are caused when the parasties feed on blood (the lice species calle Anoplura "Linognathus setosus" ) or skin debris (Mallophaga "richodectes canis" lice). The condition is usually limited to dogs that are suffering from nutrional deficiencies or neglected since flea preventatives also kill lice.
Dog lice can be seen with a naked eye. Chewing Lice to not spread disease. Lice that feed on blood (Anoplurans) can cause hypoproteinemia (abnormally low blood protein levels), anemia and in severe cases, death. The parasite is 2 - 4 mm in size.
By: Bella Moss Foundation
Symptoms
Dog lice symptoms include:
- Itch (pruritis)
- Skin scaling
- Skin scabs
- Dog dandruss (seborrhea sicca)
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Bacterial skin infection (as the result of scratching)
Dogs that are not treated can suffer from anemia, which is a reduced level of red blood cells (the part of the blood that carries oxygen). As mentioned, there are two different types of lice, those that feed on blood and Mallophaga or dog chewing lice that feed on skin debris. Chewing lice can cause skin irrtation and debilitation.
Diagnosis
Dog lice symptoms along with actually seeing the lice on the dog's body will confirm the diagnosis. The two lice types can be distinguished by their behavior with blood sucking lice moving slower than mice that feed on skin debris. Lice eggs will be visibly attached to dog hair.
Lice Lifecycle
Lice will complete their entire lifecycle while attached to one dog. When off a dog or host they can live up to 7 days. More infestations are found during the winter.
Treatment
As mentioned, products (dips, shampoos, powders) formulated to kill fleas can also kill lice. Products are applied multiple times (see manufacturers directions to kill any hatching eggs. For more information on specific products, click on the links below)
- Adams Pyrethrin Dips (dosage: 3 times at 3 week intervals)
- Frontline Spot-on (Fipronil, spot-on, 2x at 30 day intervals)
To prevent a re-occurrence be sure to vacuum the entire home. Wash floors and dog bedding. Bring the dog to the groomer to remove eggs from the dog hair.
References
External Parasitic Diseases of Dogs and Cats
P.A. Payne1, M. W. Dryden2 and G.R. Carter3
Department of Diagnostic Medicine-Pathobiology
College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, KS, USA
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