Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies)
How Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies) is Transmitted to Dogs and Cats;
Sarcoptic mange (Sarcoptes Scabei var. canis) is caused by a microscopic mite that burrows under a dog's skin. Sarcoptic mange has a 17- to 21-day, four-stage life cycle that consists of egg, larva, nymph and adult stage. Passed from dog to dog, adult female sarcoptic mange mites tunnel under a dog's skin to lay eggs. The eggs hatch and mature into adults that lay eggs in a cycle that lasts two to three weeks.
Sarcoptic mange (Sarcoptes Scabei var. canis) is caused by a microscopic mite that burrows under a dog's skin. Sarcoptic mange has a 17- to 21-day, four-stage life cycle that consists of egg, larva, nymph and adult stage. Passed from dog to dog, adult female sarcoptic mange mites tunnel under a dog's skin to lay eggs. The eggs hatch and mature into adults that lay eggs in a cycle that lasts two to three weeks.
Signs in Dogs
Dogs that exhibit signs of intense itching, scratching, and biting especially around the face, chest, legs, elbows, ears or hocks may have sarcoptic mange. Small red bumps, hair loss and crusty scabs often appear. Secondary bacterial infections also may occur as a result of scratching. Mites can be detected in skin scrapings but are often difficult to find.
Treatment and Treatment Outcomes
Treating sarcoptic mange normally requires several treatments to kill adult mites as well as all newly hatched mites. Because sarcoptic mange is very contagious, all dogs in a home should be treated if sarcoptic mange is suspected. Traditional treatment options include insecticide dips and treatment with oral medications or injections. Skin infections resulting from sarcoptic mange mite infestations also should be treated.
Human Health Connections/Concerns
Dogs can pass the sarcoptic mange mites to humans (scabies). A red, itchy rash may appear on arms, waist of other areas.