MITES. The mites commonly found on dogs and cats are permanent parasites and spend their entire life on the host. Their presence is diagnosed positively by finding them in skin scrapings, and transmission to a new host requires skin contact between them, such as nursing bitches to their puppies.

The most common surface mite is the ear mite, found in the ear canals of both dogs and cats, and sometimes around the tail. These mites are very contagious for man. They can be readily found in brushings from the coat of infected animals.

A medicated bath is commonly prescribed by vetinary surgeons.

FLEAS. Few dogs and cats pass through life without at least a temporary infestation with these small, brown wingless insects. The bodies of fleas are flattened from side to side and powerful legs enable them to jump to a considerable height.

Some animals are tolerant of a heavy infestation, others get a severe reaction.

Flea saliva is injected into the skin when the flea bites, often causing a skin reaction. They can usually be seen with the naked eye, moving swiftly over the surface, especially around the eyes and tail. Adult fleas spend only a short time on the coat, just sufficient to feed on a meal of blood.

Infestation is usually from direct contact, though fleas can be acquired from infested surroundings. When treated with insecticide, the surroundings must also be sprayed, as well as all the pets in the household.

If fly spray is used, it is best to keep the animal off the area for several days. Old bedding and baskets should be burned. If using flea collars, watch the animal in case the dog shows an allergic reaction, in which case a fly strip above the bed is preferable.

TICKS. These are nearly always acquired from farm animals. Their life cycle is usually several months, and when distended with blood are dark brown black, looking like a pigmented tumor. Their mouth parts are deeply embedded in the skin, and may be left behind if pulled off.

Large numbers are best removed by bathing, to force it to loosen its grip, with an anesthetizing swab, or spraying with a suitable insecticide before the tick is removed with forceps.

MAGGOTS. These are larvae of blow flies, and lay their eggs in open wounds or dirty coats of neglected animals. As they feed on the living animal, they secrete enzymes which digest proteins in the tissues producing craters in the skin and can cause considerable damage.