What is sarcoptic mange?
Sarcoptic mange is the most common type of mange in dogs. It is a skin disease caused by host-specific strains of the burrowing mite Sarcoptes scabei. The strain that affects dogs is Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis. The canine version can transfer to humans as a result of prolonged, frequent or close contact with an affected dog. Mild to intense skin itching, mainly on the arms, is the hallmark of infection in people. The infection is self-limiting, lasting only a few days. Transmission between dogs is also mainly by direct contact, with pregnant female mites being the main sources of transmission. In contrast to humans, the disease is highly contagious among dogs. Adult Sarcoptes mites are 0.2mm to 0.4mm long, round to oval in shape and white in color. The two front pairs of legs extend out beyond the edge of the body , while the hind legs are small and rudimentary. Males feature hind legs adorned with suckers, while females, have hind legs with long bristles.
