Dogs & Sarcoptic Mites

A dog infected with the Sarcoptes scabei mite often scratches non-stop.

Sarcoptic mange, also called scabies, is a contagious and uncomfortable disease that affects dogs. Caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabei, scabies is typically contracted from other infected mammals or from the environment. A veterinarian examination and treatment is required in order to completely resolve the issue. The longer the scabies is left, the worse the symptoms become; therefore, it is imperative to take your dog to the veterinarian at the first signs of the Sarcoptes scabei mite.

The Facts

The Sarcoptes scabei mite burrows its way under the healthy skin of mammals. According to PetEducation.com, this mite prefers to live on dogs, but will also opt for foxes, ferrets, cats and humans, as well. The mite is microscopic, as it is about .2 to .4 millimeters in length. When the mite infects a mammal, it causes a variety of skin issues, ranging from mild to severe.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a Sarcoptes scabei infestation are varied in every dog; however, most of those affected display similar symptoms. PetEducation.com states that common signs of scabies include hair loss and extreme itching on the elbows, chest, stomach, hocks, ears and armpits. Mites prefer to inhabit areas in which not much hair is present; however, as the infection progresses, the hair loss and itching spread throughout the body. Furthermore, dogs infected with the Sarcoptes scabei mite may present small, red pustules as well as crusty lesions. The dog's skin often becomes irritated and sore because of the constant scratching.

Diagnosis

A veterinarian can determine if a dog has scabies by searching for the mites. Typically, the doctor will use a blade to scrape the skin and will look at her findings under a microscope. However, skin scrapings are not always definitive, as only about 20 percent of dogs with scabies will show positive on the tests, even though the dogs are infected with the mites. Therefore, according to PetEducation.com, most scabies diagnoses are made upon the dog's symptoms and the veterinarian's suspicions.

Treatment

The Sarcoptes scabei mite can be eliminated by a few safe and effective treatments. Selamectin, which also prevents heartworm disease and the presence of fleas and ticks, is used to treat scabies. In addition, Frontline Plus, Top Spot and spray are also effective in destroying the mite. Liquid invermectin is sometimes used off-label, as is milbemycin oxime.

Prevention

The contraction of the Sarcoptes scabei mite is prevented by keeping you and your pet away from areas that contain the pest. Obviously, this can be quite difficult, as the mites are microscopic. However, if you keep your dog away from areas in which other animals, such as foxes and other canines, occupy, you decrease its chances of becoming infected.

References

• Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education: Sarcoptic Mange