The Staphylococcus bacteria can live free in the environment, on the skin of a host as a parasite, and in the upper respiratory tract of animals. The bacteria can be transmitted easily from animal to animal and in some cases from animal to human. This infection can be found in both dogs and cats, and at any age.
Flea bite hypersensitivity or flea allergic dermatitis is very common in dogs and cats. In fact, it is the most common skin disease for pets. Flea allergies usually develop when pets are young (less than one and up to five years of age), but it can begin at any age. A flea's saliva is actually believed to be cause for the pet's allergy or sensitivity.
The flea life cycle includes the adult flea, eggs, larva and pupa. Adult fleas do bite, but cannot survive long if they are not on the pet. Once they lay their eggs they will fall off the pet. The rest of the flea's life cycle then occurs on the host pet.
Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious skin disease found in dogs, caused by the Sarcoptes scabei mite. These mites will burrow through the skin causing intense itching and irritation. The scratching that results is what causes the majority of the animal's hair to fall out. This is a treatable medical condition, but is highly contagious for other animals and humans. Pet owners are advised to keep the animal quarantined while it is being treated.
