In the past treatment has been difficult, hazardous and not terribly effective. It can occur in many species, but is seen most often in rabbits and dogs. These mites can live for short periods of time off the host. Treatment involves the use of topical or injectable insecticides. On occasion premise treatment is required.
Sarcoptic mange is intensely itchy and can be passed between dogs and humans.
These mites often cause crusty lesions on the ear tips and red itchy spots on the ventral abdomen. Although they can be treated with topical products, injectable insecticides are very effective. This form of mange is rarely seen in our practice. Lice are tiny insects, about 3mm long, that spend their entire lives among the hairs of their hosts. They are very host specific and do not live off their host.