Sarcoptic MangeSarcoptic mange is also called 
- Scabies
- Sarcoptes
- Sarcoptic Acariasis
What is Sarcoptic Mange?
Sarcoptes is a microscopic mite that burrows through the skin of dogs and causes tremendous irritation. Although it can affect any area of the skin, the itching is often most severe on the dog's abdomen, chest, legs and ears.
Where do the mites come from?
An infected dog or fox can infect another dog by coming into contact with it. The mites spend their entire life on the dog. However, some mites do fall off when the dog scratches. These mites can survive for up to three weeks.
Some dogs can host and transmit mites without showing signs of the skin disease. So if you have an infected dog at home it could potentially pass on the mites to your other pets.
Can the mite infect humans?
Yes. The mites prefer to live on dogs, but can also live for at least six days on humans. The mites cause an itchy, uncomfortable skin condition. If you are exhibiting any unusual symptoms, please see your doctor.
How is it diagnosed?
The mite infestation is usually diagnosed by a skin scraping, which is a simple in clinic procedure performed by a vet. Since the mites can be very difficult to find, a vet will sometimes make the diagnosis based on the signs exhibited by the dog.
How is it treated?
The mites can be killed with a series of medicated dips, sprays, injections, oral medications or a topical medication.
Most of these treatments are performed several times, over three to eight weeks, in order to kill all the life stages of the mite.
In some cases, the dog's immediate environment is also treated to reduce the risk of any mites surviving. It is a good idea to wash the dog's bedding after every treatment. If the itching is really intense, the vet can prescribe an anti inflammatory medication. Some dogs become itchier a day or two after the first treatment, but the treatments should reduce the itching significantly within two weeks.
Contact us
Environmental enforcement
Tel: 020 7525 5777
environment@southwark.gov.uk
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