Sarcoptic Mange in Dogs

                    -----------------------

                           (scabies)



                      General Information



Sarcoptic mange is a skin disease caused by a parasitic mite.  It

is highly contagious and produces intense itching, reddening of

the skin, thinning of the hair and development of crusts and

scabs.  Bacterial skin infections commonly occur in the inflamed,

irritated skin.



Sarcoptic mites burrow directly into the skin, where they

deposit eggs that hatch in 3-10 days.  The larvae burrow up to

the skin surface to feed and molt into a nymph stage.  The nymphs

travel about the skin surface to feed.  They molt into adults,

which then mate and deposit more eggs in the skin.  The entire

life cycle is complete within 3 weeks.  Sarcoptic mites prefer

skin with little hair, so they are most numerous on the ears,

elbows, abdomen and hocks.  As the disease spreads, hair is

lost and eventually the mites occupy large areas of skin.



Sarcoptic mites may also infest people in close contact with

infested dogs.  Any people in contact with your dog who develop

skin problems should consult a physician.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Other dogs should not be allowed to contact your pet or its

    bedding until recovery is complete.



2.  The mites can infest cats and people.



3.  Environment:  Though the mites do not survive off the host

    animal for more than a few days, you should thoroughly clean

    the environment and use insecticidal sprays on kennels,

    shipping crates, harnesses, collars and grooming tools.



4.  Follow the treatment schedule exactly.  Call the doctor if

    you cannot complete any treatments or feel your treatment is

    inadequate.



5.  Treatment instructions:





        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your dog's itching becomes more intense.



    * Your dog develops new sores.



    * Your dog's general health worsens.