CAPS: This mighty mite causes problems

Dear reader, recently a panicked friend called wondering what I know about scabies. Yikes! I had to do some quick research to find out exactly what scabies is. Often referred to as itch mites or mange mites, the Sarcoptes scabiei infest many types of mammals including cattle, dogs, horses, and humans.

Sarcoptic mites are parasites of convenience that spread by direct contact with other infected animals, infested bedding, or grooming supplies. Classified as a zoonotic disease, the infection is transferable between people and animals. Since 2017, incidents of scabies have been declining, but there is always a chance of exposure through close contact with infected animals.

Some common venues these parasites frequent are dog parks, doggie daycares, pet grooming salons, and in the wild. They hitch a ride on an unsuspecting host and cause havoc. Once established the mites burrow beneath the skin and lay eggs. After the eggs hatch, the larvae dig burrows until they mature and then continue the cycle. Within three weeks, your pet can have a major infestation.

You might not see them, but they cause intense itching. Left untreated scabies mites can result in mange, which is a severe and irritating skin condition resulting in open sores, scabs, and fur loss due to constant scratching. Also referred to as sarcoptic mange it is highly contagious.

Scabies in dogs commonly appear on elbows, ear tips, faces, lower leg, and chest areas.

Although, it can affect the entire body and can infest dogs at any age. If you notice excessive licking, scratching, abnormal shedding or red crusty skin, consult your veterinarian.

Treatments for scabies include oral and topical medications along with injections to kill the mites. A cleaning of all bedding and grooming products is advisable. If you have more than one dog, they all need to be treated and cannot be around other dogs.

Usually, prevention is the best course of action so keep your pup up-to-date with flea and tick prevention. Always check before boarding your pup or having him groomed to make sure that hygienic policies are in place.

Might makes right so you might do all you can to avoid this mite.

ATTENTION

The 5K Haunted Howl Run takes place on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. at CAPS. Join us for a spooky run! Text Genevieve at 801-694-0059 for details or register on line at www.capsnevada.com. All proceeds benefit CAPS.

LOOKING FOR A HOME

We have two handsome 1-year-old male puppies. BG and Diego are anxiously waiting to find their forever homes. We also have four Border Collie-mix puppies who are six months old and four Lab-mix who are 13 weeks old. Cat lovers, we have 10 Tabby kittens in shades of gray. They are cute.

IN NEED OF

• XXL Kong Extremes for our guests.

• Would you like to foster animals? We need volunteers. Call 775-423-7500 for details

• Aluminum cans. We will pick up your cans; give us a call at 775-423-7500. You can also drop them off at CAPS.

SHOUT OUT TO

• Diane Peters for the cat trees. You are purrfect!

• All the folks who signed up for the Haunted Howl Run. A wild howl to you!

• Mike Van Buren for the giant bag of cans. Wags and Kisses to you!

COME SEE US

CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.

DON’T FORGET

• October Holiday: National Pitbull Awareness Month.

• Would you like a newsletter? Call 775-423-7500 or email caps@cccom.net.

• CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are likeable.

Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer. Email jkwmil@outlook.com.