Grooming a Dog You Think Has Scabies

Scabies (sarcoptic mange) is very itchy and causes crusts, scabs and hair loss, most often on the ear edges, elbows, belly and legs. Scabs and dark sores under the coat can have other causes too, such as skin infection, fleas or other mites, so the dog's owner should take it to a vet to find out. A vet can usually treat scabies quickly and effectively.

In the meantime, wash your hands and any clothes you wore, and wash towels, grooming tools and bedding the dog touched in hot water. Vacuum where it spent time. These mites don't survive long off a dog, usually only a few days, so a thorough clean plus time is enough for your home.

Watch your own dogs for new itching, especially around the ears and elbows. If they start scratching, tell your vet you may have been exposed, because vets often treat all dogs in a household. If you get itchy red bumps yourself, these mites can bite people briefly but can't live on human skin, and it usually clears once the dogs are treated. See a doctor if it doesn't.

See sarcoptic mange (scabies) in dogs.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.