Myiasis, which is an infection caused by fly larvae, can be extremely dangerous, particularly for young puppies.
As seen in the video below, extracting the larvae is a delicate process. The vet begins by squeezing the skin in affected areas, which results in the larva emerging from tiny holes. They must then be removed one by one, and the area cleaned thoroughly.
It may be a difficult scene to watch, but it's evident the puppy will be much more comfortable by the end. Thanks to the work of this veterinarian, he will have much higher chance of living a happy and healthy life.
What are mango worms in dogs?
Mango worms are a parasitic infestation in dogs, caused by the larvae of the mango fly (Cordylobia anthropophaga).
Here are some key facts about symptoms and treatment:
Origin and distribution
Mango worms are particularly common in tropical regions of Africa. That said, they can also be found in other parts of the world, where the climate is warm and humid.
Life cycle
The adult mango fly lays its eggs on the skin of mammals. After a short period, larvae will hatch, and burrow into the skin of the host animal. They will then feed on the skin tissue and grow.
Symptoms
Dogs infected with mango worms will show signs of itching, pain and discomfort. Swelling, redness and prurulent abscesses may occur in the affected area. A dog suffering from a mango worm infection may lick and bite themselves more often than usual.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of mango worms occurs through clinical observation by a veterinarian. They may be able to recognise the characteristic signs, but in some cases a skin biopsy may be required, to determine the type of larvae.
Treatment
Removal of the mango worms is essential. The affected areas of the skin are opened up, and the larvae are then removed. The wounds will be cleaned, and antibiotics are often prescribed to help with any infection.
Prevention
The best way to prevent mango worms in dogs is to minimise contact with mango flies and their eggs. This means protecting the dog from fly bites, and regularly checking their fur and skin to ensure no areas have been affected.
Mango worm infestations can be painful and uncomfortable, but they're usually treatable if detected early.
Mango worm videos on YouTube
Mango worm vidoes on YouTube show veterinarians performing the necessary removal for treatment. For those of you with a strong stomach, this small selection of clips demonstrates how it's done:
