What is sarcoptic mange?

Sarcoptic mange is a skin condition in animals, typically dogs, caused by mites (dog scabies) that burrow under the skin. Although people can get sarcoptic mange from contact with animals, the mites cannot reproduce on human skin, and the condition resolves on its own in about a week.

A person infested will not spread the mite to other people. But sarcoptic mange is very contagious between dogs and other domestic animals. A dog infested with the dog scabies mite will scratch the affected area and lose hair; some dogs can become nearly bald. A pet with sarcoptic mange should be treated by a veterinarian.