Trichodectes canis
| Trichodectes canis | |
|---|---|
| Class | Insecta |
| Order | Phthiraptera |
| Family | Trichodectodae |
| Species | Trichodectes canis |
Also known as: Dog biting louse
Introduction
Trichodectes canis is a chewing louse of dogs. It is very host-specific and cannot infest any other species than the dog.
It can have serious effects in puppies and older, debilitated animals.
T. canis can also act as an intermediate for the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum.
The lice are transferred by direct contact between animals, or via shared combs and brushes.
Identification
The adults are small, yellow lice, measuring around 1.5mm in length. The head is broader than long and the antennae are three-segmented, short and exposed. The legs are stout and their tarsi bear single claws, with which they tightly grasp the hair of the host. The abdomen has 6 pairs of spiracles on segments 2 to 6 and many rows of large, thick setae.
Life Cycle
The female is capable of laying several eggs per day for approximately 30 days. The eggs then take around 7-14 days to hatch, and then give rise to three nymphal stages. The nymphs mature into reproductive adults within about 2 weeks.
The egg-to-adult life cycle requires about 30 to 40 days.
Clinical signs
It is more commonly found on the head, neck and tail attached to the base of the hairs.
Lice often congregate around body openings or wounds, seeking moisture.
Typical signs of infestation include: intense pruritus, scratching, biting, sleeplessness, nervousness and a matted coat.
Damage to the skin results in inflammation, excoriation, alopecia and secondary bacterial involvement.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made on the basis of clinical signs and identification of lice in the coat. This can be done by collecting tape strips or coat brushings which are examined under the microscope.
Treatment
Lice spend their entire life-cycle on the host and are readily killed by permethrin, carbaryl and fipronil.
These antiparasitics should be applied twice, 14 days apart.
References
Wall, R. (2001) Veterinary ectoparasites: biology, pathology and control John Wiley and Sons
Wall, R. (1997) Veterinary entomology Springer
Literature Search
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Trichodectes canis publications
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