Canine Nasal Mites

Canine nasal mites are been reported worldwide and Nigeria is not left out. All breeds, ages, and sexes of dogs appear to be affected. Though one report suggested that dogs older than 3 years of age were affected more often. large breed dogs had a higher incidence than small breed dogs.

These mites are small parasites that live inside a dog’s nose and airways. They live exclusively in the nasal passages and sinus cavities of dogs. Canine nasal mites are approximately 1-mm long in length, and visible to the naked eye.

Dogs acquire these nasal mites through the direct nose to nose transmission and indirect transmission of another dog. The nasal mites are often transported from one dog to another in the larval stage. Canine nasal mites have been reported in dogs worldwide.

Infestation with the nasal mite is not frequently diagnosed. It should be considered as a cause of chronic sneezing, nosebleeds, or nasal discharge in dogs. Fortunately, if it is suspected, it is easily diagnosed and treated.

Signs of Canine Nasal Mites

The most common signs associated with nasal mite infestation in Nigeria include;

• bleeding from the nose

• sneezing

• reverse sneezing (sniffing air rapidly inward)

• impaired ability to pick up scents

• facial itching

• nasal discharge

• labored breathing

• head shaking

• high-pitched, noisy breathing

Other, less specific signs include coughing, restlessness, and collapse.

Diagnosis of Nasal Mites

If the symptoms in a dog hint towards nasal mites, a vet will take a swab from the dog’s nasal passage to check under a microscope. In general, a swab of an infected dog will reveal mites in quite a large number when seen under a microscope. If this diagnosis doesn’t seem adequate, the vet may also make use of other tests such as blood work, rhinoscopy, radiograph, nasal flushing, or nasal biopsy.

Treatment Options Available in Nigeria

There are many treatment options available in Nigeria and prognosis is very good for resolution of infestation and clinical signs. Many anti-parasitic medications seem to be effective in greater than 85% of cases.

Antihistamines and steroids may be prescribed by your vet to decrease itching and swelling. It may include treating other causes of respiratory infection alongside the mites.

No real prevention other than keeping dogs away from a dog that has a current nasal mite infestation and/or concurrent respiratory disease