Young dogs are often affected. Lesions develop around the eyes and spread to the rest of the body characterized by hair loss, skin cracking and weeping of a pink-tinged fluid. The infestation may last for several years and can cause death if unchecked. It occurs anywhere on the body, especially the head and chest. Scabies causes a severe itching sensation leading to self-mutilation through scratching and chewing.
Red spots develop into small blisters.
Scratching causes the reddish area to spread rapidly. Skin becomes dry and covered with crusts, hair may come out, skin is thickened and wrinkled. Itching is intense. Bacterial action in the scabs and sores causes an unpleasant odor. Digestion and other body functions become impaired and death may result.