[ Is eighteen years young for a dog? He didn't think they lived as long as humans, but admittedly he's never owned a dog so who knows. ]

I don't believe mites are fatal, just... itchy.

[ In fact, he feels a little itchy just thinking about them. One hand lifts to scratch distractedly at his beard. ]

I have no doubt they will all make a full recovery, and hopefully be mite-free before you see them again.

[ If he does, whenever that might be. ]