Who are lice eaters - what do they look like, photos of insects

Photos and descriptions of lice eaters: who are they, what do they look like and what is their structure?

Lice-eaters, also called wool-eaters, are representatives of the order of lice-eaters, and not a subclass of ticks.
Ectoparasites are localized in the fur of mammals. In addition to dogs and cats, they parasitize farm animals: sheep, cows, horses. About 200 species of these arthropods are known, of which 120 can be found in our country. The appearance and internal structure of these insects have the following features:

The flattened body is pale yellow in color. The length of most individuals is 1–2 (maximum 10) mm.
Shield-shaped large head. Its dimensions exceed the width of the parasite's chest.
There are no wings, so the lice eater is deprived of the ability to fly.
Three pairs of limbs equipped with claws, with the help of which their owners hold securely on the owner’s fur. The legs are attached to the chest.
An elongated abdomen formed by segments covered with setae.
Three-segment antennas.
The mouthparts are gnawing type. It is formed by the upper and lower jaws, a thickened upper lip and the teeth covering it. You can see what the parasite looks like in the photo.

These arthropods feed on epidermal cells, secretions of the sebaceous glands and blood, which they suck by biting into the skin of the victim. Pests develop on the host's body. They are characterized by incomplete transformation. The life cycle includes 3 phases: egg, larva, adult. Each female lays from 5 to 7 dozen eggs during her life, after fertilization, using a special substance, gluing nits to the fur of the mammal.

Externally, the larvae differ from the imago only in size. Before turning into an adult insect, they go through 3 instars, each of which ends with molting. The break between them ranges from 2 to 12 days. The duration of the larval stage of development is about 20 days.

Trichodectosis (hair eater)

Trichodecticosis or mallophagosis is a parasitic disease of dogs caused by the lice-eater Trichodectes canis from the family Trichodectidae of the order Mallophaga.

The parasite is a wingless small insect up to 2 mm long. The body is flattened in the dorsoventral direction, covered with a dense chitinous shell of pale yellow color. The head area is wider than the chest, flat, quadrangular. The mouthparts are gnawing type. The chest consists of three segments, to each of which is attached a pair of legs with claws on the paws. The abdomen consists of 9 segments.

Biology of the parasite. The development of the causative agent of trichodectosis occurs with incomplete metamorphosis. The female lays eggs at the base of the hair. After 4-20 days, larvae hatch from them, outwardly similar to adult insects, which, growing after 2-3 weeks, turn into the sexually mature adult stage.

Epizootological data. The source of infestation is animals that have lice eaters on their bodies. The parasite itself is transmitted through direct or indirect contact. Lice-eaters spread most quickly in places with large crowds of animals: nurseries, shelters, and also in damp rooms. Poor quality nutrition, violation of zoohygienic standards and weakening of resistance contribute to the spread of the parasite.

Clinical symptoms. The first most characteristic symptom is itching, scratching and hair loss; the coat takes on an unhealthy appearance. Scratching contributes to even greater skin irritation and the development of dermatitis. Violation of the physiological functions of the skin negatively affects the general condition of animals: the growth and development of young animals is delayed, etc.

Diagnosis of trichodectosis is carried out by detecting mallophages on the body of animals at different stages of development. To make it easier to identify lice eaters, their thermotropism is used. To do this, the animal is placed in direct sunlight for 5-10 minutes or the hair is heated with an electric lamp. The lice eaters crawl to the surface and become clearly visible. To exclude acarosis (scabies), scrapings are taken from the skin and examined under a microscope.

Treatment and prevention. Treatment consists of killing insects with insecticides in the form of dusts, solutions, emulsions or aerosols. In principle, the same drugs are used as for acarosis.

The best method of prevention is compliance with all rules of animal hygiene when keeping dogs. The introduction of mallophages with animals newly entering the nursery is not allowed. Timely detection of infestation through monthly examination of the skin and coat is of great importance. If pathogens are detected, the entire group of animals, as well as the premises, are treated with insecticides. Due to the fact that lice eaters can live outside the host’s body, all rooms and objects that the infested animals have come into contact with are subjected to disinfestation by irrigation with insecticide solutions.

General view of the lice eater - Trichodectes canis

Infection process and symptoms

There is only one way of infection by lice eater - through direct contact:

Contact with an infectious animal. Most often, when interacting with stray animals, pets become infected with lice and fleas.
Even if we exclude any interaction between a domestic dog and any stray animals, there is still a risk of infection. Lice eaters are too small to be seen with the naked eye, and a dog owner may unknowingly carry the parasite on their hands, shoes or clothing.
From mother to puppy, with direct contact.

If an animal is infected, but there are still few parasites and they are not active enough, it is very difficult to detect them. But when lice eaters multiply, the disease can be identified by the following symptoms:

The dog experiences severe itching, which is why it scratches constantly.
The presence of light flakes in the dog's fur, similar to dandruff. Lice eaters are sedentary parasites, but upon very careful examination you can see how these “flakes” move.
The dog's fur becomes dull, brittle, becomes matted and sticks together.
Partial baldness may occur - the inner thighs and base of the tail are especially susceptible to this.
When there are a lot of parasites and they cause severe discomfort to the pet, the dog may lose its appetite, become apathetic, and lose weight.

Characteristic signs of the lice mite

An animal that is affected by a lice beetle becomes very restless. The parasite injects special allergens into the skin, which cause severe itching and discomfort. The dog may refuse to eat or play. The owner can immediately notice the presence of a tick, as the pet’s fur becomes disheveled and loses its shine. If you look closely, you can see the parasite, which is easier to do on an animal with dark fur.

The presence of this insect is very dangerous. Over time, your pet may become bald, as the hair-eating mite multiplies at a tremendous speed. You also need to keep in mind that the disease is contagious, and the passage of the parasite from one pet to another is not difficult. This is important for those who have many animals in the house.

It is not possible to identify the lice eater at home. These insects are very similar to fleas. It is easy to confuse them and thereby adopt the wrong treatment tactics, which will only result in a worsening of the underlying pathological process. It is important to contact a veterinarian in time to make a diagnosis.

This parasite is very insidious, as it is practically invisible to the human eye. It feeds on the blood of the animal and can survive like this for a sufficient amount of time. The lice eater affects the pet’s fur and skin. The allergic reaction can be so severe that the pet will eventually be unable to sleep or eat properly. Depletion occurs in the shortest possible time. Infection is especially dangerous for small puppies, whose immune systems are still too weak.

Danger to your pet

The ectoparasite, which is the lice eater, not only brings discomfort to the animal, but can also be a carrier of helminths and be a catalyst for the development of other unpleasant and dangerous diseases.

If there are lice eaters on the dog’s body, there is a very high probability of developing trichodecosis.

Lice eaters cause severe itching in the dog and, by furiously combing and biting the fur, the pet injures itself, and open wounds appear that can become infected.

The presence of parasites in general greatly weakens the dog’s body, immunity decreases, and chronic diseases or allergic reactions can worsen. Due to a decrease in the body's protective functions, the dog is susceptible to various viral or infectious diseases.

trichodectosis in a dog

Possible complications

Long-term infection of a dog with lice eaters can cause the development of dermatological diseases, the appearance of wounds and scratches on the pet’s skin. It is possible to develop helminthiasis, which is carried by parasites. Due to severe itching, the animal becomes irritable and aggressive. In addition, exacerbation of chronic diseases, if any, is likely.

Why folk remedies for fleas do not work against lice eaters

Often both types of parasites are infested at the same time. But you can get rid of fleas cheaply and cheerfully, for example, with the help of infusions of garlic, medicinal herbs and essential oils, salty soapy water and pine needles scattered under the dog bed. It’s not so easy to drive out lice eaters, and here’s why.

Fleas do not constantly parasitize the dog; they jump on the animal to feed, but live in the bedding. Female fleas do not lay their eggs on the fur, but scatter them in different directions, thus increasing the offspring’s chances of survival.

The lice eaters do not leave the body of their owner, and the eggs are securely attached to the base of the dog's hair. The offspring of these parasites in the first phase of their development are extremely resistant to the effects of folk remedies. Therefore, when lice eaters are detected in dogs, it is more reasonable to treat them at home using specialized medications.

In advanced cases, with the development of inflammatory skin diseases, the pet must be shown to a veterinarian.

Are lice eaters dangerous for humans?

The animal's temperature is much higher than that of humans , so lice eaters cannot parasitize humans. Insects love warmth.
The only danger is an accidental parasite bite. Since lice eaters are carriers of infections, humans, like animals, are in danger.
Worm eggs can be transferred by insects to the human body.

When a dog bites, larvae can enter the bloodstream and develop under the skin. At this moment, itching will be felt, so you cannot do without a specialist.

Prevention and treatment of whipworm in dogs

The feces of animals infected with worms must be immediately removed along with the soil. It is advisable to remove a 7-8 cm layer of soil around the dog kennel, replacing it with clean sand. If possible, do the same on a piece of land where the dog is constantly walked.

Whipworms cannot be destroyed by conventional disinfection, but in the summer they will be killed by direct sunlight: they cannot tolerate strong ultraviolet radiation. Infested basements and other damp areas can be disinfected by burning with a resin torch. A blowtorch is also used for this purpose, but it takes a lot of time.

Treatment for whipworm in dogs should be carried out by a veterinarian and drugs such as Panacur, Mebendazole or Werkom are usually prescribed. Prevention is similar to prevention of infection with other types of parasites.

Treatment of trichodectosis in dogs

Trichodectosis not only weakens the immunity of animals, but can also cause functional disorders in the body, lead to a decrease in the barrier function of the skin, and complete baldness of the dog. In addition, lice eaters are carriers of helminths, pathogenic fungi, Leptospira, and other dangerous viruses and bacteria. Therefore, if you notice dangerous ectoparasites in your dog, you must immediately take appropriate measures in consultation with a veterinarian.

Dogs infected with lice eaters are treated with special insecticidal preparations - sprays, drops, antiparasitic shampoos. The course of treatment is usually four to five weeks, which corresponds to the life cycle of the parasites.

The coat is treated two to three times with an interval of 7-9 days, depending on the antiparasitic agent used.

The most effective drugs for the treatment of trichodectosis:

Oxamate.
Turingin-B.
Gomelin.
Akrodex.
Dana.
Advantix.
Dironet.
Cyodrine.
Bolfo.
Dironet.
Bars-forte.
Dermatosol.
In-Up complex.

These drugs for the treatment of parasitic diseases destroy adults, larvae, and eggs of ectoparasites. Systematic use of insecticidal agents will eliminate the symptoms of trichodectosis and subsequently avoid re-infection.

Advice! Before using insecticidal preparations, be sure to read the instructions and strictly adhere to the frequency of treatments and the indicated dosage. After treatment, carefully monitor the condition and behavior of your pet for three days.

For small puppies, special anti-parasitic suspensions and shampoos can be purchased at a veterinary pharmacy, clinic against lice, fleas, and other types of parasitic insects.

As additional therapy for dogs with trichodectosis, immunomodulators, enzymes, antihistamines, and anti-inflammatory drugs can be prescribed.

During treatment, it is worth protecting the dog from communicating with other pets and animals on walks. You should definitely disinfect leashes, collars, brushes, completely change the bedding, and do a general cleaning of the apartment.

Anti-hairworm medications for dogs

To rid a dog of dangerous parasites, a variety of insecticidal preparations are used: drops, aerosols, shampoos, dusts. The course of treatment is quite long - from four to five weeks. This is the life cycle of lice eaters. It is not enough to treat the animal’s fur once; the measures are carried out 2-3 times with an interval of 7-9 days, according to the instructions for the specific insecticide.

Pediculicidal shampoos

To get rid of lice, you can use shampoos against fleas, lice and ticks. The moisturizing substances included in their composition reduce itching and improve the structure of the dog's hair. Medicinal detergents have a pleasant aroma and rarely cause allergic reactions in pets. Shampoos are used to treat dogs of all breeds and ages; use in puppies is allowed.

Popular brands of shampoos against hair lice:

Lugovoy;
Phytoelite;
RolfClub;
Bars (AVZ);
Demos-Lux.

Drops against lice

The basis of medicinal products in the form of drops are insecticidal components. Drops are considered the most effective remedy against this type of parasite, because they have a long protective period - the preventive effect lasts up to 6-8 months.

Popular brands of antiparasitic drops:

Insectal;
Good Dog (Favorite);
Prac-tic (Novartis);
Frontline (Merial);
GreenFort.

Antiparasitic sprays and aerosols

Preparations in the form of sprays (aerosols) have a composition similar to drops. A distinctive feature of this type of preparation is its high concentration of insecticide.

Popular aerosols against lice:

Frontline (Merial);
Bars (AVZ);
BlochNet (Astrapharm);
RolfClub;
Fiprex.

The form and brand of the medicine should be selected by the attending veterinarian, taking into account the condition of the dog, the degree of infestation with parasites, age and other biometric parameters.

Fight against lice eaters

A veterinarian can determine the symptoms and treatment of a parasitic infestation. If your dog develops characteristic signs of lice-eaters, you should visit a veterinary clinic. The doctor carries out an examination using an electric lamp, which reveals insects of any species at different stages of development. Then he takes the scraping for analysis.

To quickly get rid of insects, you need to buy new bedding, disinfect furniture and all surfaces in the apartment, and dog accessories. To strengthen the immune system, vitamins are given, which are dissolved in water or mixed with food.

The main treatment is carried out using aerosol insecticides, shampoos, and drops. Therapy lasts from 5 to 6 weeks.

A visit to the veterinarian and taking a scraping from the animal is a mandatory procedure.

Using sprays

Disinfection with a spray is carried out in a room with good ventilation or outside. The owner should wear gloves and a respirator mask to protect the lungs from chemicals entering them.

For processing use your choice:

"Frontline";
“Bolfo”;
"Celandine";
"Danu Ultra".

Medicines are produced based on synthetic compounds and essential oils of plants. The cost of each product varies from 500 to 1000 rubles.

After disinfection, you need to hold your pet so that the product has time to be absorbed. The dog must dry off. Licking and biting is strictly prohibited.

After treating the fur with medication, the dog should not lick it off.

Shampoos

“Lugovoy” is based on natural ingredients: lanolin, coltsfoot, chamomile, glycerin and the auxiliary additive deltametron.

It is the safest insecticidal drug, which is considered one of its advantages. The next advantage of the shampoo is its low cost: 168.30 rubles per 250 ml.

Performs two functions: kills parasites and stimulates metabolic processes in the skin and hair roots.

Directions for use: after the dog has been wetted with warm water, the required amount of the drug should be distributed (0.5-1 ml per 1 kg of weight). The shampoo is rubbed in for 7 minutes, then washed off with water. Dry the pet and comb it - repeat the procedure in a week.

“Apit” kills parasites, and also has a soothing effect on the skin and has wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Manufacturer Russia, cost 100 ml 81.50 rubles.

“ Dmos-lux” (Russia) – price 59 rubles per 250 ml. Scented shampoo also worked well.

It contains the following components: sulfur, peramethrin and surfactants. The composition is green in color and has the smell of pine needles.

Using a detergent allows you to free your skin from dry flakes due to a component such as sulfur. Returns hair to its former silkiness and stimulates its growth. After washing wool, sulfur is able to interact with skin proteins. Thus, it has an antiseptic and acarcinogenic effect.

The product is considered low-hazard for pets and does not cause irritation if the dosage is used correctly: per kg of weight from 0.5 to 1.0 ml.

Before applying shampoo, wet the coat well with warm water, then rub the mixture well for several minutes and leave for 12 minutes. Next, rinse off the mixture and dry the fur. Repeat the treatment after 10 days.

Perhaps the treatment will last for one month, since it will be necessary to destroy all the insects that appear from the nits. During bath procedures, do not allow the mixture to come into contact with mucous membranes. If this happens, immediately rinse it with running water, or remove it with a cotton swab.

When working with all brands of shampoos, you should fulfill some requirements:

work with gloves;
no smoking;
do not eat;
not to drink.

Upon completion of work, wash your hands thoroughly with soap. Brush your pet with a metal comb as thoroughly as possible, touching all areas.

Drops on the withers

"Dironet" . produces high-quality products for 193 rubles.

These are combined antiparasitic drops, which include the following components: ivermectin (20 mg), praziquantel (85 mg) and auxiliary additives. Destroys adult individuals, as well as larvae of the lice eater.

During application, active substances accumulate in the sebaceous glands, hair follicles, epidermis and are partially absorbed into the withers. Next comes entry into tissues, organs and systemic blood flow. Ivermectin paralyzes the muscle cells of the parasite, which ultimately leads to their death.

The drug can be used to treat and prevent lice-eater infestation in dogs starting from two months of age. To do this, you need to cut off the protective cap from the pipette tube and apply it to the skin between the shoulder blades in three places.

Dosage: weight 20-30 kg – 6 drops, 10-20 – 4, 5-10 – 2, 2-5 – 1. No side effects of the drug have been identified with the correct dosage.

The drops should only be applied to healthy, dry skin and the dog should not be bathed for 4 days. If there are several dogs in the house, then during the treatment period they should be isolated from each other. Since they can lick the medicine from the fur of another pet and get poisoned.

“Frontain” (France) – 256.65 rubles. The main component of the drops is fipronil and auxiliary additives, a solvent.

The drug, unlike the previous one, is not absorbed into the blood. It acts on parasites through contact. The composition is distributed over the entire surface of the body within 24 hours.

Pipettes are prudently produced in various volumes. If the dog is from two to six months old, pipettes with 0.67 ml are purchased, with a weight of 10-29 kg - 1.34 ml, 20-40 - 2.68, 40 - 4.02.

Do not use drops on puppies younger than two months. The drug is distributed on the withers in several places directly on the skin. The animal cannot be bathed for two days.

After a month, the procedure can be repeated if necessary. Basically, the drops help get rid of parasites in one go and subsequently protect the dog from re-infection for 3 months.

No less popular Stronghold from an American manufacturer, 2 ml pipette – 900 rub. The drug is allowed for pregnant, lactating dogs and puppies up to 6 weeks. Prevents re-infection for 8 months.

Ointment

Suitable for treating individual lesions or large areas. Apply to a previously cleaned area, against the animal's fur. It is better to put a protective collar on the dog so that it cannot reach the treatment site.

Aversectin ointment is usually used. It has a wide range of actions, does not cause an allergic reaction, and is characterized by low toxicity.

Apply twice a day at intervals of a week. Therapy lasts until the dog clinically recovers.

This drug is recommended for use in combination with other antiparasitic drugs. For example, first wash your pet with shampoo and then apply ointment.

Pills

Treating trichodectosis with tablets is very convenient. They are easy to chew, have a pleasant taste and attractive aroma. Therefore, it is not difficult to feed the dog medicine; the animal will happily swallow the pill.

The advantages of oral administration are several. Firstly, there is no need to ensure that the pet does not lick the applied drug, and secondly, the lack of external treatment does not limit tactile communication between the owner and the pet. They prescribe Comfortis, Frontline NexgarD, Bravecto for dogs.

Collars

The easiest way to treat lice eaters is to use antiparasitic collars. To get the effect, just put a collar on the animal. Before getting rid of lice in dogs in this way, it is recommended to bathe the animal using any insecticidal shampoo during the procedure. It should be noted that collars are excellent for preventing your pet from becoming infected with parasites.

Therapeutic methods

Treatment for lice in dogs can proceed in different ways. Manufacturers have developed several types of antiparasitic products that can quickly cope with the pathology and its consequences.

When choosing a remedy for lice for dogs, you need to study the instructions, pay special attention to contraindications, and learn about age restrictions. Old, weakened and sick dogs require gentle medications that do not put a strain on the body.

Most often, they get rid of the pest using means for external use. They are effective and easy to use. However, with severe progression of the disease, intramuscular injections may be necessary. Conducted in the clinic after a thorough examination.

Treatment lasts throughout the entire life cycle of the pest, which is about a month. Therefore, it is impossible to overcome the pathology with a single use of the drug; it is necessary to undergo a full therapeutic course.

Purchase antiparasitic medicine at a pet store, veterinary pharmacy or veterinary clinic.

Shampoos

Shampoo against lice, fleas, lice and ticks is one of the effective means in the fight against external parasites. There are advantages - no contraindications and minimal risk of an allergic reaction. A variety of brands makes it possible to choose a shampoo based on breed and age. Most of them are suitable for handling small puppies.

Mode of application:

The dog is watered and then soaped. Thoroughly rub the shampoo into the coat, paying most attention to the affected areas where lumps have formed or dirt is present. Avoid contact with eyes.
For a therapeutic effect to occur, the product is left on the dog for 5-7 minutes.
The animal is washed with clean water or broth and dried. Use a brush to comb out dead individuals and their eggs.

Meadow shampoo, Demos-Lux, and Fitoelita are considered effective. Used to remove dirt and combat external parasites.

These products not only help remove lice-eaters, but also make the coat smooth, shiny, make combing easier, and add a pleasant aroma.

Drops and sprays

Drops against lice for dogs are considered highly effective medicines, since they contain insecticides. These substances instantly destroy existing pests and prevent new ones from appearing. This anti-hairworm remedy for dogs lasts for more than six months.

The withers are treated, the number of drops and frequency of application are prescribed in the instructions. It is important that the pet cannot lick the medicine, otherwise there is a risk of poisoning from the active substance. Popular brands include:

Insectal;
Frontline;
Good Dog.

You can also get rid of lice in dogs using a spray. The drug contains similar components as the drops, but the concentration of the active component is higher. Apply to the hair, avoiding the eye area and mucous membranes. The product is sprayed evenly over the body, lingering on problem areas. The effect of use lasts for three weeks. Doctors recommend drugs Bars, Fiprex, RolfClub.

Ointment

Aversectin ointment is usually used. It has a wide range of actions, does not cause an allergic reaction, and is characterized by low toxicity.

Apply twice a day at intervals of a week. Therapy lasts until the dog clinically recovers.

This drug is recommended for use in combination with other antiparasitic drugs. For example, first wash your pet with shampoo and then apply ointment.

Pills

Traditional methods

Treatment at home is widely practiced in the fight against lice eaters. However, the method is not particularly effective and only helps at the initial stage of the disease. Therefore, veterinarians recommend combining folk remedies with basic therapy.

Pests are neutralized with decoctions of chamomile, wormwood or string. The components of these plants inhibit the vital activity of parasites and force them to leave the host’s body.

During bathing, the dog's fur is rinsed well with freshly brewed herbs and blotted with a towel. Plants soothe itching, relieve irritation, and restore natural skin barriers. In addition, this procedure improves the quality of the coat, making it shiny and well-groomed.

Folk remedies

At the initial stage of parasite infection, you can deal with ticks at home using herbal decoctions. You need to do this:

Brew chamomile, thyme or wormwood.
Buy a dog and treat its fur with a herbal decoction. Particular attention should be paid to the tail, muzzle, and hind legs.
Brush your pet after bathing with a special brush (if you don’t have one at hand, you can use a fine-toothed comb). Examine the animal to make sure there are no parasites left on it.
Repeated treatment can be carried out after 10 days.

The presented product allows you to remove insects from puppies, as well as adults, if no more than a week has passed after contact with an infected animal. In advanced stages of the disease, it is not recommended to use this method - it will not give the desired effect. You should only use it to relieve your pet's condition before seeing a doctor.

Video: lice eaters in dogs, their symptoms, signs and treatment

How to treat lice in dogs?

If there is a suspicion that an animal is infected with a parasite, the owner should contact a veterinarian. The doctor will conduct an examination, study using an electric lamp, which allows identifying insects at all stages of development, and take scrapings from the skin. Based on the results of the study, the specialist will prescribe treatment with insecticidal drugs. The course of therapy is usually 5-6 weeks. To quickly get rid of pests, it is recommended to change the bedding on which the dog sleeps, treat upholstered furniture in the house, and also, for preventive purposes, treat the hair of other animals, if you have them.

To improve the pet’s general condition, he may be prescribed oral vitamin tablets and special food. You need to take them until complete recovery.

Sprays

These are the most convenient drugs to use. They are used like this:

Apply sprays to the dog's entire body (avoiding the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, eyes).
Wait for the time specified in the instructions.
They comb out dead insects from the fur and then bathe the pet.

The most effective sprays are “Defendog” and “Frontline”. The preparations allow you to get rid of pests in two treatments, but require careful use. The dog owner needs to ensure that the animal does not lick the product from its fur or skin, otherwise it may be poisoned by it.

Shampoos

These products are suitable for pets of any age, including weakened puppies. They allow you not only to get rid of parasites, but also to remove itching, and also improve the condition of the hair. The following shampoos against ticks are considered the most effective:

"Leopard".
"Demox-Lux".
“Phytoelite”.

Using the presented tools is not difficult. It is enough to buy your pets this shampoo, then comb their fur to remove dead insects. Since such drugs have a short-term effect, treatment with them should be carried out weekly until the parasites are completely eliminated. If you miss at least one session, ticks may breed again.

Drops

Such products are considered the most effective, as they have a long-lasting effect and provide protection for the animal from pests for eight weeks. The most effective of this group of drugs are considered to be “Frontline”, “Prak-tik”, “Bars”, “Ibris”. The medicine is used as follows:

The animal is bathed with anti-flea and tick shampoo.
The wool is thoroughly combed, dead insects and their eggs are removed.
Apply a few drops against pests to the animal’s withers.

This method will be most effective in the early stages of the disease. If you apply it in the first week after infection, you can get rid of all parasites in one session and then carry out only preventive treatment.

Folk remedies

At the initial stage of parasite infection, you can deal with ticks at home using herbal decoctions. You need to do this:

Brew chamomile, thyme or wormwood.
Buy a dog and treat its fur with a herbal decoction. Particular attention should be paid to the tail, muzzle, and hind legs.
Brush your pet after bathing with a special brush (if you don’t have one at hand, you can use a fine-toothed comb). Examine the animal to make sure there are no parasites left on it.
Repeated treatment can be carried out after 10 days.

Video: lice eaters in dogs, their symptoms, signs and treatment

Treatment of litter and places where the pet is

To remove lice eaters, it is not enough to treat your pet. Wool beetles may hide in a dog bed or other places in the house for the duration of the drug's effect. To prevent the parasites from returning to the owner, it is necessary to carry out a thorough disinfestation of the room in which the animal that has recovered from trichodectosis lives.

Disinsection can be carried out in several ways:

Wash your four-legged friend's bedding and toys in hot water. It is better to use insecticidal shampoo for washing. In winter, you can take your dog or cat’s personal items out into the cold for a few hours.
Wash the floor and wipe other horizontal surfaces in the room where the ill cat or dog is, with an insecticidal agent (“Karbofos”, “Reid”, “Phenaxin”). You can use folk remedies for wet cleaning that were used to bathe your pet.

Drugs used

We have already mentioned the drugs Advantix, Fiprist, Inspector and Advocate more than once. Due to the sedentary lifestyle of lice eaters, it is easier to get rid of them than fleas. A few hours after treatment with the medicine, you need to thoroughly comb your pet, getting rid of paralyzed or dead parasites.

To avoid licking, it is better to take your animals for a walk outside before the drug dries. If there are several dogs in the house, then all of them must be treated at the same time. Be sure to read reviews about medications.

Fiprist

The drug Fiprist is sold in drop and spray format. Gets rid of both lice and fleas. Fiprist spray is used in an open space, after thoroughly shaking the bottle. The distance between the drug and the dog should be about 10-20 cm. The wool is treated until slightly moistened - against hair growth. It is necessary to protect your eyes.

Fiprist drops are applied once between the shoulder blades - a place inaccessible to licking. A large animal may need a few drops. The instructions will tell you how to use it. Puppies younger than eight weeks should not be treated.

Advantix

The product is designed to eliminate lice eaters, ticks and fleas. You need to pierce the membrane and squeeze out the contents of the pipette between the shoulder blades, spreading the fur. Large dogs require Advantix to be instilled in several places - from the sacrum to the shoulder blades.

Advantix doses:

up to 4 kg – 0.4 ml;
4-10 kg – 1 ml;
10-25 kg – 2.5 ml;
25+ kg – 4 ml.

Advantix is contraindicated in puppies under 7 weeks of age and in sick animals. The lice eaters die within 12 hours, and the effect of the drug lasts up to 6 weeks. Don't forget about reviews.

Advocate

Like Advantix and Fiprist, Advocate drops are applied between the shoulder blades. Doses and frequency of use are similar to those described above. It is contraindicated to treat dogs younger than 7 weeks and weighing less than 1 kg with Advocate. After treatment with Lawyer, you cannot wet the animal for 4 days.

Inspector

Inspector drops are used in the same way as Advocate. The dosage is similar, and so are the contraindications for using Inspector. Side effects of the drug include allergic reactions and redness of the skin.

It is not recommended to use Inspector and other similar products against fleas and lice eaters if there are several dogs in the house. This is fraught with licking and poisoning. It is advisable to throw away the litter, but if it is a pity, it should also be treated with a preparation - Inspector or any other similar one.

IN-AP (drops)

Products are manufactured in Russia .
The form of the product is an antiecto- or antiendoparasitic solution.
Blend – dropper bottles for use on the animal’s withers .
The volumes of the droppers depend on the body weight of the dog being treated.
Active ingredients: aversectin C1, fipronil, proziquantel.
Intended for treating dogs with body weight: 1-5 kg (0.5 ml), 5-10 kg (1 ml), 10-20 kg (2 ml), 20-30 kg. (3 ml), 30-50 kg (5 ml). If the dog weighs more than 50 kg, then for every 10 kg add 1 ml of the drug to the withers.
The duration of the protective effect is 50 days .
Approximate cost – 215 rubles .

Review of "IN-AP":

Alena, Moscow. We have a St. Bernard puppy - we gave him a birthday present. But then I discovered small white pieces of skin on his back. I thought that dogs also have dandruff. Then, when he began to itch a lot and whine, I looked again, and there were not white pieces of skin, but some white grains. We ran to the veterinary clinic, where they said that it was a lice eater and that they should wash his bedding more often. They immediately bought drops there and treated the puppy, and then they told me to treat it again after 3 days. We did everything as the doctor said - there were fewer parasites, I had to comb out a lot with a comb and bathe more often.

Lugovoy (shampoo)

Production – Russia .
Available in the form of shampoo for dogs with allergies or other dogs.
Bottle volume – 270 ml.
Plant components in the composition, such as pyrethrin .
Toxicity – completely safe, hypoallergenic .
Average cost - 104-120 rubles .

Review of Lugovoi shampoo:

Elena Vladimirovna, Novosibirsk. I am the owner of an excellent four-legged friend - Barry the Bernese Mountain Dog. The coat of this breed is very thick, the dog is designed to live in the mountains. After the next exhibition, where after the performance I gave free rein to my friend - to lie around with my new canine friends as much as I wanted. Apparently he somehow picked up the lice eaters there. About a couple of months passed when I began to notice that my friend began to shed unusually quickly and leave fur. We went to the clinic and found lice eaters there. Barry once had an allergic reaction to some vitamins, I don’t remember which ones. Therefore, we decided not to risk it and prescribed him to wear a special collar and bathe him regularly with hypoallergenic Lugovoi shampoo. I want to say that after 2 weeks in the place where there was a focus of these parasites, there were already much fewer of them, and the fur began to shine. A wonderful shampoo, and, most importantly, also inexpensive!

Akrodex (aerosol)

Country of origin: Russia .
The form of the drug is an aerosol .
Cylinder volume – 208, 385 and 500 ml.
The active component is an organophosphorus insecticidal substance.
Toxicity is average.
The price of the aerosol is 150-180 rubles .

Review:

Alexander. I have a mongrel living in a private house, in the yard. And I had to treat her for lice with this “Acrodex” spray. The product is very strong, so I recommend not to overdo it when you use it. All the parasites were gone, the dog felt fine.

Medifox

Country of origin: Russia .
The release form of the drug is a white transparent or light yellowish liquid.
The active ingredients are permethrin dissolved in alcohol (ethanol) and castor oil .
How to make a working composition - dilute 8 ml of the drug in 100 ml of water (a little less than half a glass).
The drug can be stored for about 5 years.
Market value (average) – 120-150 rubles .

Review of Medifox against lice eater:

Galina, Simferopol. I tried not to notice the itching on the dog’s head, thinking that it was just the wrong shampoo. But after I changed the shampoo and the scabies did not stop, I checked the dog. I looked and saw that some black crumbs were scattered along the parting of the hair below the crown. I went to the veterinary clinic and the doctor scared me and said it was a lice eater.

Foxylon – lotion

Country of origin: Russia .
Bottle volume – 50 ml.
Blend is a cardboard box containing instructions and a glass bottle with the substance.
The active ingredient is benzyl benzoate .
Toxicity is high. Very strong allergen, causes irritation if used incorrectly .
The average price is 150 rubles .

Review of Foxilion to remove the lice eater:

Maria, 23 years old, Novosibirsk. At the veterinarian I once heard about insects that can be found in dogs and cats. The doctor advised me to buy a lotion for bullying - Foxilion. It helped almost immediately, just for prevention, after 3-4 days I treated the dog again.

LiceGuard – shampoo

Product release - USA .
Bottle volume – 120 ml.
There are no insecticides or pesticides in the composition .
Zero toxicity. Substances in the composition of natural origin, which also strengthen the hair and make it more attractive in appearance.
The functions of the drug are active softening of the eggs of the lice eater.
After soaping, keep it on your head or body for about 5 minutes. Then everything is washed off with warm water.
The average cost is 800 rubles .

Review of LaisGuard from a lice eater:

Sergey Vladimirovich, Moscow. My son went fishing with me in one reserve with our dogs. The dogs picked up the lice eater there. Let's go to the veterinary clinic. They recommended buying it through the LysGuard website. Bought. We treated the place on the head where the insects were visible. So they combed everything out with a comb. A couple of days later I checked - the parasites were still moving here and there. I applied the product again. Indeed, LysGuard is very good at fighting nits or larvae.

Lice eater in dogs video:

Other means

In addition to those described above, there are also other types of products that protect against fleas, ticks and lice - key chains and tablets.

key fob works by transmitting signals in the ultrasonic range and repelling both blood-sucking insects and ticks. The cost of such a product ranges from 1,500 rubles to 5,000. Manufacturers of such devices assure that the key fob is valid for 2 years.
In addition to key chains, there is another product that has an insectoacaricidal effect - chewable tablets . The validity period of such tablets is from one (Frontline Nesgard) to three months (Bravecto). The cost of the product is quite high - from 800 to 1500 rubles per Frontine tablet and from 1300 to 1800 rubles per Bravecto tablet.

The tablet is a wet treat that is soaked in the active ingredient. After the dog eats it, the ingredients penetrate through the gastrointestinal tract into the blood and remain there for the entire duration of action.

The advantage of this remedy is that any blood-sucking insect or tick will definitely die if bitten. A significant disadvantage is that if the substance enters the animal’s blood, it cannot be removed until the entire period of action has expired. The only way is a complete blood transfusion.

Tablets should be used with extreme caution for miniature dogs or animals prone to allergic reactions.

Prices for drugs against lice

Russia

Lugovoy (Agrovetzaschita), shampoo, 270 ml., from 165 to 190 rubles;
Bars (AVZ), shampoo, 250 ml., from 160 to 170 rubles;
Rolf Club, shampoo, 400 ml., from 300 to 320 rub.;
Rolf Club, spray, 200 ml., from 490 to 520 rubles;
Insectal, drops, 4.3 ml., from 185 to 195 rubles;
Prac-tik, drops, 3 pipettes, from 1100 to 1400 rubles;
GreenFort, drops, 3 pipettes, from 130 to 190 rubles;
Bars (AVZ), spray, 100 ml., from 180 to 190 rubles;
BlochNet, spray, 100 ml., from 170 to 175 rubles;
Gamma, shampoo, 250 ml., from 110 to 120 rubles;
Phytoelite, shampoo, 220 ml., from 90 to 100 rub.

How to prevent your pet from becoming infected?

To prevent your pet from becoming infected with these ectoparasites, you must:

protect your dog and cat from contact with stray animals while walking;
After each walk, inspect your four-legged friend to identify lice eaters;
use preventive means of protection (sprays, collars, drops) to prevent attacks by parasites;
provide your pet with a balanced diet;
Regularly give your pet vitamin complexes to strengthen the immune system;
promptly treat identified diseases;
Conduct preventive veterinary examinations at least once a year;
check if the pregnant pet has ectoparasites;
when a new animal appears in the house, make sure that it does not have trichodectosis;
regularly wash and disinfect cat and dog beds and toys;
prevent your pet from coming into contact with outdoor shoes and door mats;
isolate an infected cat or dog from animals living with them in the same area;
after treatment, keep the pet who has recovered from trichodectosis in quarantine for several weeks;
carry out vaccination and deworming in a timely manner.

Sources

https://VrediteliSOS.ru/nasekomye/drugie/vlasoedy-u-sobak.html
https://sobaka.wiki/health/bolezni/vlasoedy-u-sobaki/
https://ParazitDoma.ru/vshi/vlasoedi-u-sobak
https://obnaruzhil.ru/blohi/vlasoedy.html
https://localvet.ru/sobaki/bolezni/vlasoedy
https://lifeinsect.ru/borba-s-vlasoedami-u-sobak.html
https://dogipediya.ru/veterinariya/zabolevaniya/vlasoedy
https://dogworry.ru/veterinariya/vlasoedy-u-sobak-simptomy-lechenie.html
https://dalmspb.com/zdorovie/vlasoedy-u-sobak-foto-12001/
https://dezplan.ru/vopros/vlasoed-u-sobak-simptomy-foto-i-lechenie
https://mybarbos.com/vlasoedyi-u-sobak/

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Treatment

Due to the difficulty of diagnosing whipworms in dogs and cats

, it is reasonable to administer empiric therapy with fenbendazole or other appropriate medications to all dogs with signs of colonic disease before proceeding with endoscopy. If the animal has been cured of lice, therapy must be repeated after 3 months to destroy parasites that were outside the intestinal lumen at the time of treatment. Eggs persist in the environment for a long time.