Scabies is caused by an overpopulation of mites. There are a number of different species of this type of mite parasite, and generally live in the hair follicles of our pets. These mites almost always transmitted from mother to young in the first weeks of life, and generally live in harmony in your pet without causing any problems. However, when something like malnutrition, a weakened immune system, or intense stress, it disrupts this natural balance and the mites can reproduce quickly and become out of control. Because scabies mites cause living in the hair follicles of dogs, hair loss is usually the first symptom noticed. Hair loss typically begins in the main area, often starting around the eyes and muzzle. Other symptoms include crispy skin, moist red may seem in appearance, and in some cases, the affected areas can become tender and itch and can even crack and bleed.
Scabies can be mild to very serious and if untreated, it can actually be fatal. In serious cases of hair loss can extend to all areas of the body, lymph nodes may swell, the skin can become inflamed and painful and secondary infections can happen quickly. Some dogs may develop symptoms such as fever, lethargy and loss of appetite. One of the things that need to be mentioned is that the itch is not caused by unsanitary conditions or pollution of the environment. It is not contagious because most pets have already mites. Scabies is caused by a poor immune system and is more common in dogs with underdeveloped immune systems or older pets with suppressed immune systems.