Mites That Affect Dogs & Humans

Several species of mites cause many different reactions in both humans and dogs. Whether they feed on blood, tissue or other materials, the mites may cause irritability, itching, sneezing and other symptoms. Mites are small arachnids, closely related to spiders and ticks. Some of the mites that affect both humans and dogs are microscopic, while others are just large enough to be visible to the naked eye.

Sarcoptes Scabiei and Related Species

• Sarcoptes mites cause scabies, which can affect both dogs and humans. Sarcoptic mange--as it is referred to in dogs--produces hair loss, irritability and patchy skin. Many types of scabies mites exist, each having a preferred host to live on. The species that affects dogs most commonly does not live long on humans, and the same is true for each species and their preferred hosts. The mites normally cannot complete a full life cycle on the wrong host.

  Scabies mites bury into the skin and lay eggs in the tunnels left behind them. This act causes much of the irritability as the mites are moving under the top layer of the skin. Dogs transmit the disease to one another, and most human cases are caused from direct contact with an infected person.

  For sarcoptic mange in dogs, there are several treatments available. Ivermectin--although not FDA approved--is a leading choice among veterinarians although there are several breeds--specifically herding breeds--that cannot take the medication. Interceptor, Sentinel and Advantage Multi are also medications effective in the treatment of sarcoptic mange.

  For human mange or scabies, products known as scabicides are prescribed. Scabicides are available in cream and lotion forms, and the infected person applies the medication to the infected parts of the body.

  For both humans and dogs, wash the bedding and clothing in hot water. For humans, sexual partners or people in close contact may require treatment as well, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Chigger Mites

• Chigger mites are tiny mites that affect both humans and dogs during summer months. Chigger larvae, while still considered mites, only have six legs like insects. The larval stage of development is the only stage to actively feed on dogs and other mammals.

  Contrary to popular belief, the larval chigger mite does not suck blood. This tiny parasite ingests a liquid into the skin which breaks down tissue. Once the tissue is effectively liquified, the parasite then sucks it up. These bites cause red, itchy spots, sometimes with a small white pustule in the center. In humans, these mites prefer areas of the body such as ankles, under the sock or belt line, anywhere clothing fits tightly, armpits, groin and back of knee. In dogs, chiggers typically affect the legs, belly and head areas.

  Mow long grass and briars to prevent chigger infestations, and always wear insect repellent. Humans should shower with hot water as soon as possible after possible contact. They should also wash their clothes in hot water; cold water may not kill the mites, and they will bite again once the clothes are re-worn.

  Dogs infested with chiggers find relief from either dips or antiparasitic topical treatments.

Dust Mites

• Although they don't feed on animals or humans, dust mites still affect people and dogs. For people, dust mites can cause wheezing, sneezing, itchy and runny eyes and other symptoms of allergic rhinitis. For dogs, the allergic reaction typically occurs in the form of dermatitis.

  Dust mites feed off of dead skin cells and pet dander. They inhabit any place in your home that may have a good food source, such as bedding, soft furniture and others. People inhale the mites and their fecal matter when they become airborne, thus causing the allergic rhinitis.

  Dogs are more commonly allergic to enzymes produced by the mite. Humans sometimes show similar symptoms to dogs; however, it is not as likely as the sneezing "allergy attacks."