Chigger season is here! I am sure many of us are familiar with what chiggers are. However, did you know that they can also affect your dog?
Chiggers are red bugs that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. They usually latch onto children because their skin is softer than adults’ skin. Â However, they can also attack dogs when found in grassy or wooded areas during warmer months when the temperature is about 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
If there are chiggers in your backyard, it is best to keep your dog indoors to prevent him from getting bitten by these pesky bugs. Chigger bites look like reddish bumps or hives on a dog’s skin and may come with some swelling. Â Chiggers are so small, they are hard to see on the skin of dogs. However, you can look for them under fur by parting them. The bites may also affect your dog’s tummy and quickly spread all over his body if not treated right away.
To treat chigger bites on dogs, you should immediately wash the affected area using antibacterial soap and cold water because hot water will open up a dog’s pores. You may even add baking soda to lather for its analgesic properties which helps stop the itching associated with chigger bites on dogs. You should then apply a bug bite ointment that contains hydrocortisone or antihistamine cream that will prevent inflammation caused by the bites.
After applying these medications, give your dog an oral antihistamine to lessen the effects of the bug bites. It is also best to use a medicated anti-itch shampoo to ease discomfort caused by chigger bites on dogs.
You should apply it twice a day until all signs of itching disappear. Since there are no vaccines available for the prevention of chigger bites, you should keep your dog away from areas where chiggers live or simply bring him indoors during warmer months when they are active to avoid attacks. Chigger bites on dogs are painful but can be relieved with proper treatment right away.
Can chiggers infest dogs?
Yes. Dogs can easily become infested with chiggers from grassy or wooded areas if they have been exposed to them during warmer months. You should not allow your dog to roam around areas where there are lots of grasses and brush as this is a common habitat for chiggers.
Can dogs bring chiggers in the house?
Yes. If your dog has been around areas where there are lots of grasses and brushes, he can easily bring chiggers inside the house.
What do you need to watch out for if my dog has been bitten by chiggers?
The bites are usually red bumps on your dog’s skin which may appear as hives. They may also become itchy and inflamed, causing your dog to scratch or lick them right away which can make the condition worse.
What should I do if my dog has been bitten by chiggers?
Chiggers are very tiny, so they are hard to see on your dog’s skin. You can look for them under his
How long do chiggers live on dogs?
On dogs, they may live for about 12 hours to 3 days.
How can I prevent my dog from getting bitten by chiggers?
Since there is no vaccine available for the prevention of chigger bites, you should keep your dog away from areas where chiggers live or bring him indoors during warmer months when they are active.
How do I get rid of chiggers on my dog?
To get rid of chiggers, you should immediately wash the affected area using antibacterial soap and cold water because hot water will open up your dog’s pores. You may even add baking soda to lather for its analgesic properties which help stop the itching associated with chigger bites on dogs. You should then apply a bug bite ointment that contains hydrocortisone or antihistamine cream that will prevent inflammation caused by the bites.
After applying these medications, give your dog an oral antihistamine to lessen the effects of the bug bites. It is also best to use a medicated anti-itch shampoo to ease discomfort caused by chigger bites on dogs.
You should apply it twice a day until all signs of itching disappear. Since there are no vaccines available for the prevention of chigger bites, you should keep your dog away from areas where chiggers live or simply bring him indoors during warmer months when they are active to avoid attacks.
Can I use a hot compress for a chigger bite on my dog?
No. You should not apply heat to your dog’s affected area because it can increase inflammation caused by bug bites.