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How will sarcoptic mange/scabies affect my dog?
Scabies causes severe itching, so dogs that experience prolonged scratching and hair loss are suspect. Symptoms are most often seen on the elbows, hocks, abdomen, and chest of infested dogs. Scabies is difficult to diagnose so clinical signs and elimination of other risk factors are important as skin scrapings are often unreliable. It is important to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect an infestation. Your veterinarian can recommend effective therapies for this disease.

How do I prevent my dog from getting scabies?
Maintaining the good health of your dog is important to preventing scabies. Dogs that roam with other dogs, reside at a shelter or boarding facility, or have frequent contact with other dogs are susceptible as scabies is easily transferred between dogs.

Can humans be harmed by scabies?
Scabies is zoonotic (can be passed from animals to humans), so pet owners that have close contact with their dogs may develop an itchy rash. After the dog has been treated, however, symptoms usually disappear.

© 2006 Companion Animal Parasite Council

Sarcoptes