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Cheyletiella
(Also known as rabbit itch, rabbit fur mite, or walking dandruff)
Cheyletiella are mites that live on the surface of the skin of dogs. They are very contagious and can even affect people. Affected puppies are scurfy with scales and flakes evident on the head, ears, back and base of the tail. These mites can survive for a short period of time (several days) off the host, so treating the environment is important (spraying with an approved premise spray or left-over dip). Any insecticide labeled for puppies is effective and all contact animals should also be treated. The treatment should be repeated every 2 weeks for at least 3 treatments. A keratolytic shampoo may be necessary to remove the skin flakes.
