Are Pincher Bugs Harmful To Dogs

Expert’s answer:

According to the search results, pincher bugs, also known as earwigs, are not generally harmful to dogs. They do not pose a threat to cats or dogs, and they are not toxic if ingested. While earwigs may release a foul odor and can pinch, they are non-toxic to dogs. It is not uncommon for dogs to eat bugs, and as long as your dog does not have any adverse reactions, there is typically no cause for concern. However, if you notice any unusual symptoms or your dog shows signs of discomfort after ingesting an earwig, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian for proper guidance.

Are pincher bugs harmful to dogs to humans
Are pincher bugs harmful to dogs to humans – (Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Why do my dog’s ears have earwigs in them?

In and around ear canals, ear mites are parasites that are very contagious. The Psoroptidae family, which the dog ear mite is a member of, is a collection of parasitic mites that do not burrow into the skin but instead live on its surface.

Otodectes cynotis is their official scientific name. They are best seen under a microscope and are typically less than half a millimeter long. Dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, and occasionally livestock are among the many species that these mites affect.

An intense itching is brought on by ear mites. The following are the most typical signs of a dog ear mite infection.

Due to constant rubbing and scratching, secondary skin infections, skin lesions, and hair loss can appear around the head, neck, and ears.

Are earwig bites dangerous
Are earwig bites dangerous – (Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How can I get rid of earwigs around my pets and in my home?

Spray bottle with some rubbing alcohol and water in it. Earwigs can be instantly killed by spraying them. Olive oil and soy sauce can be combined to create a trap. Place the container containing the mixture in a location where you last saw earwigs.

Earwigs are not ferocious insects out to wreak havoc, despite the intimidating appearance of their pincers. Despite their name, they won’t eat your hair or ears like other invasive pests even though they are ravenous. Instead, they’ll establish a home in your yard where they can eat mulch, plants, and dead leaves.

There are more than 1,500 different species of earwigs, and only 20 of them are found in the United States, according to the pest control company Orkin. S. They typically measure between one-fourth and two inches in length.

It is known that earwigs enter buildings in search of moist areas during dry weather. Many earwigs have wings, but they are not the most graceful flyers and typically prefer staying closer to the ground.

Do pincher bugs pinch hurt
Do pincher bugs pinch hurt – (Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What makes pincher bugs attracted to a home?

In areas with a lot of moisture, pincher bugs look for it. It’s ideal to live somewhere that is damp or wet. If you’re indoors, you can hide out in your basement near the washing machine or in your wet towels, whereas if you’re outside, you might find a spot under a decaying log or in your flower bed.

Keep an eye on the moisture in your home to prevent any earwig problems. Fix leaking pipes, frequently replace wet towels, and fix the dripping sink. Consider purchasing a dehumidifier if your home is very humid, particularly in the basements. More dry conditions result in fewer pincher bugs.

Vacuuming them up is a quick method of getting rid of earwigs. To remove both the pests and their eggs, use the vacuum. It can be particularly useful for getting rid of these insects from carpeting or difficult-to-reach areas.

Dogs can be poisoned by earwigs.

Earwig ControlThus, while earwigs are not harmful to humans, they can be a pain in your home. Set up a consultation with Terminix® if you notice earwigs in or around your house. Our skilled technicians are knowledgeable about everything earwig-related. They can not only aid in locating earwig infestations close to your house, but also in eradicating them.

Pincher bug pinch
Pincher bug pinch – (Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What if my dog ate a bug called an earwig?

Pets are not harmed by earwigs. Unlike fleas, they do not bite or infest pets. The time of day when earwigs are most active is at night, and they avoid predators like cats and dogs. It is unlikely that eating an earwig will hurt your dog or cat. Pets may become ill from eating pests like cockroaches. Although they are not poisonous, cockroaches can spread disease. So your dog might become ill if it consumes one. Since earwigs don’t transmit any diseases, it’s unlikely that your pet would become ill if they ate one.

You might find earwigs in your pantry munching on any food that is left out after they have gained access to your home. They are a nuisance when in large numbers, but unlike termites, they do not harm property. They can be located in your garden as well. They prefer warm, humid environments as their home. They might stray into homes in the fall when it cools off. Small animals like earwigs can be kept out of your home by keeping it airtight and sealing any entry points.

They can be beneficial because they prey on pests like aphids, maggots, and flies, but earwigs can also be detrimental to your garden. They may be harmful because they consume the fruits and flowers in your garden. They occasionally chew holes in hosta leaves as well as the flower buds of butterfly, marigold, and dahlia bushes. Larger plants are not harmed by a few holes, but when earwigs invade a garden in large numbers, the plants may perish.

What causes earwigs to disappear?

Place a small container containing a mixture of soy sauce and olive oil where earwigs can smell it. Because they can’t get out of the oil, the pincher bugs will climb in and drown.

Earwigs are instantly killed by what?

Spraying them with a solution made of water and rubbing alcohol in an equal ratio will instantly kill earwigs. Note: Before treating an entire plant, spray just one leaf and wait 24 hours to make sure it won’t harm the plant. When you see earwigs, use boric acid, which is available at hardware stores.

What odors are offensive to earwigs?

Earwigs do not like certain essential oils’ scents. Basil, peppermint, eucalyptus, and cinnamon are some of the best odors to deter earwigs. Put a few drops of essential oil into some water to dilute it, then spray this mixture throughout your home to spread the scents.

Are earwigs poisonous if eaten
Are earwigs poisonous if eaten – (Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How can I stop earwigs from getting into my dog’s food?

Pet food is frequently sold in cans or plastic bags when you buy it. It can be challenging to properly seal plastic bags and cans. You don’t want bugs getting inside or being drawn to the smell of these inadequately sealed containers. Fill an airtight, sealable plastic container with your pet’s food from the bag or can. These plastic containers will keep bugs and odors separate. The food and bowls should be kept off the ground when being stored.

Make sure your bags are empty before disposing of them, and don’t leave them in your indoor trash can for an extended period of time because they likely still have the smell of the pet food on them. Make sure to rinse out your cans before throwing them away to ensure that there isn’t any food residue inside that might be luring pests.

Use caution when using bug traps, insecticides, or repellents near pet food and water bowls as these substances may be harmful to your animals.

Pincher bug bite marks
Pincher bug bite marks – (Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Why have earwigs appeared in my home overnight?

However, the situation is different inside your house. Potted plants, wet cardboard, and wet newspapers are common entry points for earwigs into homes. When the weather outside becomes unbearably hot or cold for them, they will also go inside, searching for comfortable places to live. If they come across moist areas, such as overwatered plants, a cluttered, damp basement or garage, dripping faucets, or windowsills, they will remain inside.

Diatomaceous earth is a type of sedimentary rock that, when crumbled, can stop earwigs from climbing onto your plants and eating them if you’re trying to get rid of an earwig infestation in your garden. For the best results, sprinkle it all around your plants.

Cleaning up any moist or cluttered areas that could serve as a haven for earwigs is important if you want to get rid of an earwig infestation inside your home. You can unpot the plants and get rid of the earwigs and eggs from the roots if you have a lot of potted plants.

Video:


Earwigs Are Real

I also grew up hearing about earwigs (pincher bugs) and never thought I would be interacting with them nearly as much as I do.



Earwig, pincher bug Wars in the Garden

Here’s the result of using just some dollar store oil and a couple splashes of soy sauce.. that’s it!


Are pincher bugs harmful to dogs.
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Chelsea Vaughn

Chelsea is a former marine biologist who switched gears in her twenties to build a small house and start a business. She enjoys traveling and going on hiking adventures with her husband, their two Australian Shepherds and their African Grey Parrot.

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