Sarcoptic Mange Outbreak in San Francisco – Urgent Warning for Dog Owners and How to Protect Your Pets

What Is Happening in San Francisco?

San Francisco is currently experiencing an unusual and fast-spreading sarcoptic mange outbreak that is believed to be originating from the local coyote population. Wildlife officials and veterinarians across the Bay Area have confirmed a sharp increase in mange-infected coyotes, especially in neighborhoods bordering open parks, beaches, and wooded trails.

While mange is not a new disease in wildlife, the current spike is significantly higher than normal, which increases the risk of the parasite spreading to domestic dogs. Several veterinary clinics in San Francisco have already reported a notable rise in dogs showing mange-related symptoms such as intense itching, bald patches, and secondary skin infections.

The concern among veterinarians is not just the number of cases, but the speed at which the outbreak is spreading through urban wildlife. Coyotes affected by mange may wander into residential areas in search of food, shelter, or water—bringing them closer to pet-accessible environments such as:

• Backyards

• Parks

• Hiking trails

• Dog-walking routes

• Trash disposal zones

This increases the likelihood of environmental contamination, as the mites responsible for mange (Sarcoptes scabiei) can survive in the environment long enough to be transmitted to dogs through indirect contact.

City officials have issued advisories urging dog owners to stay vigilant, maintain strict leash control, and avoid areas with recent coyote sightings. The outbreak is still developing, and monitoring efforts are expanding as more cases are identified.

What Is Sarcoptic Mange and Why Is It Dangerous?

Sarcoptic mange, also known as canine scabies, is a highly contagious skin disease caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis. Unlike other milder skin problems, sarcoptic mange spreads aggressively, causes extreme discomfort, and can lead to severe medical complications when left untreated.

How the Mite Works

Once the mite comes into contact with a dog’s skin:

1. It burrows into the outer layers of the skin.

2. The female mite lays eggs inside the tunnels it creates.

3. The dog’s immune system reacts intensely, causing:

   • relentless itching,

   • red, inflamed patches,

   • thickened skin,

   • patchy hair loss.

Because of how the mites reproduce, symptoms become progressively worse every few days.

Why Sarcoptic Mange Is Dangerous

• Extremely contagious: It spreads between dogs through direct contact, contaminated environments, bedding, grooming tools, or infected wildlife.

• Fast progression: Dogs can deteriorate rapidly due to constant scratching, open wounds, and skin infections.

• Secondary bacterial infections: These can become severe and may require antibiotics.

• Possible transmission to humans: Sarcoptic mange is zoonotic, meaning humans can develop temporary itching and rashes after handling infected animals.

• Increased spread during wildlife outbreaks: As in San Francisco now, when coyotes carry mange, the disease can jump to urban dogs very quickly.

Why This Outbreak Matters

During outbreaks like the current one, the number of mites in the environment rises dramatically. Even dogs that do not encounter wildlife directly may still contract mange from:

• contaminated grass

• park benches

• soil

• shared dog areas

• indirect exposure from other infected pets

This is why veterinarians emphasize early detection and strict prevention whenever a local wildlife-driven mange wave occurs.

How the Current Outbreak Started (Coyote Transmission)

The ongoing sarcoptic mange outbreak in San Francisco is strongly linked to the local coyote population, which has shown an unusually high rate of infection in recent months. Wildlife experts report that mange-infected coyotes have been observed more frequently in urban and suburban neighborhoods, often appearing thin, disoriented, and with severe hair loss — classic signs of advanced mange.

Why Coyotes Are Driving the Outbreak

Coyotes are highly adaptable and often live very close to residential areas. When mange spreads among wild coyotes, several factors increase the risk of transmission to domestic dogs:

1. Food-seeking behavior:Mange compromises a coyote’s ability to hunt. As a result, infected coyotes increasingly move into human-populated areas in search of easy food sources like trash cans, compost bins, or pet food left outdoors.

2. Loss of fear due to illness:Sick wildlife becomes weaker and less cautious, causing them to wander closer to backyards, parks, and dog-walking routes.

3. Environmental shedding of mites:Sarcoptic mites can fall off the coyote’s skin and contaminate:

   • soil

   • grass

   • benches

   • shaded resting spots

   • dog play areas

   The mites can survive long enough outside the host to infect other animals.

4. Indirect contact with domestic dogs:Most dogs do not meet coyotes face-to-face. But mange often spreads through:

   • shared outdoor areas

   • sniffing contaminated ground

   • rolling in grass

   • using the same trails

   • contact with infected fur or dander left behind

Because of these factors, even dogs that never go near wildlife can become infected.

What Officials Are Seeing Now

Bay Area park rangers and municipal wildlife agencies have reported:

• a sharp rise in mange-positive coyotes

• more calls about “sick-looking, hairless coyotes” in residential areas

• veterinarians noticing a corresponding increase in dog mange cases

This outbreak pattern — wildlife → environment → domestic dogs — is extremely typical of sarcoptic mange waves in North America.

Symptoms of Sarcoptic Mange in Dogs

Recognizing symptoms early can make the difference between a treatable case and a severe medical emergency. Sarcoptic mange in dogs progresses fast, often becoming dramatically worse within just 7–14 days.

Below are the most common clinical signs:

1. Intense, relentless itching (pruritus)

This is the hallmark of sarcoptic mange.Dogs often scratch:

• continuously

• frantically

• to the point of crying or whining

The itching is far more severe than normal fleas or allergies.

2. Patchy hair loss

Hair typically falls out around:

• elbows

• hocks

• belly

• chest

• ears

But in advanced cases, large bald areas develop across the entire body.

3. Red, inflamed, thickened skin

The mites burrow under the skin, triggering a strong immune reaction. You may see:

• red bumps

• scaling

• crusts

• thick elephant-like skin

• dark discoloration

4. Scabs and open wounds from scratching

Constant itching causes:

• bleeding sores

• raw patches

• secondary skin infections

These often require antibiotics.

5. Behavioral changes

Dogs with mange often:

• become restless

• struggle to sleep

• pace at night

• become unusually irritable

• lose interest in play

6. Bad odor from the skin

Secondary bacterial infections create a sour or yeasty smell.

7. Weight loss and general decline

Severe mange can cause loss of appetite, lethargy, and overall weakening.

8. Rapid worsening over days

Unlike milder skin conditions, sarcoptic mange spreads quickly throughout the body without fast treatment.

How the Disease Spreads to Household Pets

Sarcoptic mange spreads far more easily than most dog owners realize. While many people assume their dogs must come into direct contact with infected wildlife to contract the disease, the truth is that the vast majority of cases occur through indirect environmental exposure.

1. Contaminated outdoor surfaces

Sarcoptes mites can survive off-host for hours to days under the right conditions. This means that dogs can pick up the mites simply by interacting with contaminated outdoor areas such as:

• Parks and dog play areas

• Hiking trails

• Beaches

• Grass where a coyote recently rested

• Shaded soil, leaves, or brush piles

• Apartment complex yards

Dogs who like to sniff, dig, or roll in the grass are at especially high risk during an outbreak.

2. Contact with infected fur or dander

Coyotes shed mites onto the environment through:

• loose fur

• scabs

• dried skin flakes

• resting spots

A dog does not need to touch a coyote — just the fur or dander left behind.

3. Contaminated objects (fomites)

Mites can be transferred from:

• benches

• tree roots

• outdoor water bowls

• fallen branches

• common sniffing spots

Some outbreaks have even involved mites spreading through shared dog towels at grooming locations.

4. Transmission between dogs

Once one dog catches mange in a household or dog park, the risk to other pets becomes very high.

Transmission can occur through:

• shared bedding

• playing or wrestling

• grooming each other

• using the same car seats

• sleeping in the same room

Even minimal contact is enough.

5. Human-to-dog mechanical transfer

Humans cannot host the mites long-term, but they can accidentally carry them on:

• clothing

• hands

• shoes

• blankets

If someone pets an infected dog and then touches their own dog within minutes, transmission is possible.

6. Indoor spread

If a dog brings mites into the home, they can survive on:

• carpets

• sofas

• beds

• fabric surfaces

This is why early isolation and environmental cleaning is essential.

When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care

Most cases of sarcoptic mange require prompt treatment, but certain symptoms indicate the disease has progressed to a dangerous stage where emergency care is necessary. Delaying treatment can lead to severe complications, including bacterial infections, dehydration, and systemic illness.

Seek immediate veterinary attention if you observe any of the following:

1. Bleeding sores or rapidly worsening skin lesions

Open wounds increase the risk of:

• cellulitis

• abscesses

• systemic infection

Dogs with rapidly spreading sores should be seen urgently.

2. Extreme restlessness or inability to sleep

Dogs suffering from severe pruritus (itching) often cannot sit or rest.If your dog is constantly:

• pacing

• crying

• scratching to the point of exhaustion

this is a veterinary emergency.

3. Signs of intense pain

Most mange infections cause discomfort, but severe pain — especially when touching the skin — suggests complications.

4. Fever or lethargy

These can indicate that secondary skin infections or systemic inflammation are developing.

5. Loss of appetite and weight loss

This suggests the disease has progressed significantly. Mange itself does not directly cause weight loss, but chronic discomfort, pain, and infection can.

6. Crusting around eyes, ears, or mouth

Crusts in sensitive areas make the condition more serious because they often precede secondary bacterial infections.

7. Breathing difficulties

Rare but serious — indicates systemic inflammation or other complications.

8. Spread of mange to other pets in the home

If more than one dog (or a dog and a cat) begin showing symptoms, it means the household environment is heavily contaminated and requires immediate intervention.

9. If you have immunocompromised individuals in the home

Because sarcoptic mange is zoonotic (can affect humans), immunocompromised people are more vulnerable to severe reactions.

Bottom line:

If your dog’s symptoms worsen over 2–3 days or they display signs of pain, infection, or distress, seek veterinary care immediately.Early treatment dramatically improves prognosis.

Treatment Options for Sarcoptic Mange

Treating sarcoptic mange requires both medical therapy and strict environmental control. Because the disease progresses rapidly and is highly contagious, veterinarians usually recommend a combination of systemic medication, topical treatment, and supportive care.

1. Prescription medications (first-line treatments)

Most dogs respond extremely well to modern antiparasitic medications. The most commonly used are:

• Isoxazoline class (most effective):

  • Bravecto (fluralaner)

  • NexGard (afoxolaner)

  • Simparica (sarolaner)

  • Credelio (lotilaner)These medications kill mites quickly and are considered the gold standard for mange outbreaks.

• Selamectin (Revolution)Highly effective for mild to moderate cases; safe for puppies and small breeds.

• Ivermectin (in selected breeds)Very effective but NOT safe for Collies, Shelties, Australian Shepherds, or dogs with MDR1-gene mutation.

2. Medicated shampoos and dips

Dogs often need supportive topical treatments to:

• soothe severe itching

• remove crusts and scales

• prevent secondary bacterial infections

Commonly used products include:

• Lime-sulfur dips (very effective, safe for most dogs)

• Benzoyl peroxide shampoos

• Chlorhexidine-based antiseptic shampoos

These help reduce skin inflammation and allow systemic medications to work faster.

3. Antibiotics (if secondary infection is present)

Many dogs with mange scratch their skin open, leading to bacterial infections such as:

• Staph infections

• Deep pyoderma

• Hot spots

• Cellulitis

Veterinarians may prescribe oral antibiotics when skin lesions are advanced or foul-smelling.

4. Anti-inflammatory medications

Severe cases cause swelling, inflammation, and pain. Short-term use of steroids or anti-itch medications may be recommended to help the dog rest and heal.

5. Follow-up exams

Because mange is aggressive, dogs usually need 1–2 follow-up visits to ensure:

• the mites are fully eliminated

• secondary infections are resolving

• no household pets have become reinfected

Complete recovery typically takes 4–8 weeks, though itching may improve within days.

Home Isolation and Disinfection Measures

Once a dog is diagnosed with sarcoptic mange, home isolation is essential. This prevents the disease from spreading to other pets — and reduces the chance of mites surviving in the environment long enough to cause reinfection.

1. Separate the infected dog from other pets

For at least 3–4 weeks, the sick dog should be kept in:

• a separate room

• its own bed

• its own feeding/water area

Avoid shared couches, blankets, or sleeping spaces.

2. Wash all bedding and fabrics

Wash the following items in hot water and dry on high heat:

• dog beds

• blankets

• towels

• sofa covers

• clothing the dog has contacted

Heat kills mites quickly.

3. Vacuum and clean frequently

Daily vacuuming helps remove mites and skin debris:

• carpets

• rugs

• couches

• curtains

• dog resting spots

Follow with a disinfecting spray safe for pets.

4. Avoid contact with wildlife-contaminated areas

During the outbreak, keep dogs away from:

• trails with coyote sightings

• wooded edges of parks

• grass patches where coyotes may rest

• dumpsters or trash areas

This reduces the risk of reinfection.

5. Bathe the dog as recommended

Regular medicated baths help:

• remove dead mites

• reduce itching

• accelerate skin healing

• prevent secondary infections

Your veterinarian will recommend the bathing schedule based on severity.

6. Clean hard surfaces

Use pet-safe disinfectants on:

• floors

• tiles

• crates

• kennels

• food/water bowls

Though mites prefer fabric, they can survive temporarily on hard surfaces.

7. Limit human contact if possible

Humans can develop temporary rashes from sarcoptic mites.Until the dog is well into treatment:

• wash hands often

• avoid hugging the dog

• wear long sleeves

• avoid letting the dog sleep on your bed

The mites cannot complete their lifecycle on humans, but irritation is common.

8. Monitor other pets closely

If any other dog or cat in the home shows:

• itching

• hair loss

• restlessness

• red bumps

they may also require treatment — even without direct contact.

Bottom Line:

Home isolation and strict sanitation dramatically reduce the risk of reinfection and speed up recovery.

How to Prevent Sarcoptic Mange During the Outbreak

During an active wildlife-driven outbreak like the one occurring in San Francisco, prevention becomes just as important as treatment. Sarcoptic mange spreads aggressively, survives temporarily in the environment, and can infect even dogs that never come into direct contact with coyotes. The goal is to minimize your dog’s exposure to contaminated areas and reduce the chances of bringing mites into your home.

1. Keep Dogs on a Leash at All Times

Unleashed dogs explore:

• bushes

• tall grass

• wooded edges

• animal resting spots

• garbage areas

These are high-risk environments during a mange outbreak.Strict leash control is one of the strongest preventive measures you can take.

2. Avoid High-Risk Trails and Parks

During outbreaks, prioritize dog-friendly areas with:

• paved walkways

• open visibility

• lower wildlife activity

Avoid:

• wooded trails around Golden Gate Park

• Presidio trails

• Glen Canyon Park

• Outer Richmond / Sunset green belts

These areas have reported coyote sightings and likely environmental contamination.

3. Do Not Allow Dogs to Roll in Grass or Soil

Rolling, digging, or sniffing intensely in a contaminated patch is one of the most common ways dogs contract mange from wildlife.

4. Keep Dogs Away from Trash Areas

Dumpsters, compost bins, and alleyways are hotspots for coyote scavenging — and therefore hotspots for mange mites.

5. Use Monthly Preventive Medications

Isoxazoline-based preventives (Bravecto, NexGard, Simparica) not only kill fleas and ticks but also offer protection against mange mites.During outbreaks, many veterinarians recommend staying 100% up-to-date on these medications.

6. Avoid Dog Parks During Peak Outbreak Periods

Dog parks can act as “amplifiers” during a mange wave. A single infected dog can spread mites through:

• grass

• benches

• water bowls

• shared toys

Temporarily limiting dog park visits may protect your pet.

7. Prevent Contact With Any Wildlife

Never allow your dog to:

• chase wildlife

• sniff dead animals

• explore brush piles

Coyotes suffering from mange often collapse or rest in hidden areas.

8. Keep Your Yard Secured

If you live near parks or open spaces, ensure:

• trash is fully sealed

• yard is fenced

• pet food is not left outdoors

• nighttime lights deter wildlife

This reduces the likelihood of coyotes entering your property.

9. Check Your Dog Daily

Look for:

• red bumps

• hair loss

• new itching

• behavior changes

Early symptoms are subtle. Daily inspection prevents severe disease.

10. Shower After Visiting High-Risk Areas

This is especially important if you handled other dogs, visited shelters, or walked in remote trails. Humans can briefly carry mites on clothes or hands.

Bottom Line:

During a mange outbreak, small preventive steps make a massive difference.Minimize exposure, use preventives, and monitor your dog closely.

Public Health Officials’ Warnings and Recommendations

Local veterinarians, wildlife agencies, and public health officials across the Bay Area have issued urgent guidance in response to the rising number of mange-infected coyotes and domestic dog cases. Their recommendations focus on protecting both pets and people.

1. Leash Control Is Mandatory in Affected Zones

Officials report that many dogs contracting mange were off-leash during hikes.They strongly advise:

• no off-leash trail walking

• avoiding heavily wooded paths

• keeping dogs close during evening and early morning walks

2. Avoid Areas With Recent Coyote Sightings

Sick coyotes are frequently spotted:

• crossing residential streets

• near schools and parks

• around trash collection zones

If a neighborhood alert mentions a mange-infected coyote, avoid the area for several days.

3. Report Sick or Hairless Coyotes

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious coyotes to:

• SF Animal Care & Control

• California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Timely reporting helps officials track and contain the outbreak.

4. Treat All Household Pets if One Dog Is Infected

Because sarcoptic mange spreads easily indoors, many vets recommend treating all dogs in the household, even if only one shows symptoms.

Cats rarely get sarcoptic mange, but they can still develop itching or transient rashes — so monitoring them is essential.

5. People Can Develop Temporary Rashes

Public health authorities note that:

• mange mites can cause itching in humans

• symptoms disappear once the dog is treated

• immunocompromised individuals should be cautious

They recommend washing hands thoroughly after handling infected pets.

6. Do Not Delay Veterinary Visits

Officials repeatedly warn that waiting even a few days can lead to severe complications, especially during an outbreak when mite loads in the environment are high.

7. Keep Vaccinations and Parasite Control Updated

Although mange is unrelated to vaccination schedules, healthy dogs with strong immune systems often recover faster and have fewer secondary infections.

8. Use Only Veterinarian-Approved Treatments

Many home remedies online can worsen the disease. Lime-sulfur baths and systemic medications should only be used under professional guidance.

9. Follow Isolation Guidelines Strictly

Breaking isolation too early is the # 1 cause of reinfection. Health departments emphasize:

• 3–4 weeks of strict isolation

• washing bedding weekly

• cleaning frequently touched surfaces

10. Stay Alert Until the Outbreak Declines

Officials expect the outbreak to continue for several weeks or months depending on:

• wildlife density

• season

• coyote behavior

• urban pet exposure

Owners should remain cautious even after initial warnings fade.

Impact on Local Wildlife and Urban Pets

The sarcoptic mange outbreak in San Francisco is not only affecting domestic dogs — it is also reshaping the health and behavior of the city’s wildlife. When a mange wave hits a region, it creates a chain reaction that spreads through animal populations, alters ecosystems, and increases risks for pets and humans alike.

1. Severe impact on coyotes

Coyotes are currently the most visibly affected species in this outbreak. Mange causes:

• hair loss

• hypothermia

• malnutrition

• weakness

• secondary infections

Infected coyotes often lose their ability to hunt effectively and are forced to approach human-populated areas in search of easy food sources. This abnormal behavior increases the likelihood of dog–wildlife indirect contact.

2. Higher likelihood of wildlife entering urban zones

As mange weakens coyotes, they:

• wander further distances

• appear in residential backyards

• roam near playgrounds and dog-walking routes

• stay out during daytime (unusual behavior)

• seek warmth under porches or sheds

These changes put household pets at greater risk.

3. Indirect spread to other wildlife

Although Sarcoptes scabiei primarily affects canids, other species can become involved:

• foxes

• raccoons

• bobcats

• stray dogs

• domestic cats (less common but possible)

In regions with dense wildlife populations, outbreaks can spread across species and persist for months or even years.

4. Ecological consequences

Large mange outbreaks weaken predator populations, which can lead to:

• increased rodent activity

• changes in prey populations

• shifts in territorial patterns

• more interactions between wildlife species

These ecological disruptions often create unpredictable risks for pets.

5. Increased danger for off-leash dogs

During outbreaks, off-leash dogs are at significantly higher risk due to exposure in:

• tall grass

• wooded edges

• wildlife resting spots

• indirect contact with infected fur or dander

This is why veterinarians urge owners to keep dogs leashed until the outbreak is under control.

6. Potential for zoonotic exposure

While humans cannot sustain sarcoptic mites long-term, officials warn that increased wildlife activity near homes raises the chance of temporary skin irritation in people who handle contaminated dogs.

Common Mistakes Dog Owners Make During Mange Outbreaks

Even responsible owners often make errors during a local mange outbreak. Because Sarcoptes mites spread quickly and aggressively, these mistakes can worsen the infection, prolong recovery, or cause the disease to spread through the household.

1. Allowing dogs to roam off-leash

The number one cause of exposure is off-leash contact with contaminated soil, grass, or wildlife resting areas. Even a few seconds of sniffing in the wrong place can result in infection.

2. Ignoring early symptoms

Many owners dismiss early signs as:

• allergies

• dry skin

• flea bites

• stress

But delayed treatment allows the disease to become severe within days.

3. Attempting home remedies

Online “solutions” such as:

• coconut oil

• essential oils

• apple cider vinegar

• baking soda baths

do not kill sarcoptic mites and often make the condition dramatically worse.

4. Not isolating the infected dog

Owners often allow the sick dog to sleep:

• on the same bed

• on the couch

• next to healthy pets

This guarantees household spread.

5. Forgetting environmental cleaning

Even with medication, untreated environments can cause reinfection.Owners often skip:

• bedding washing

• vacuuming carpets

• cleaning dog carriers

• disinfecting car seats

6. Thinking “indoor dogs can’t get mange”

During wildlife-driven outbreaks, indoor dogs can become infected simply by:

• walking a few minutes outdoors

• smelling grass

• stepping in a contaminated yard

7. Stopping treatment too early

Many owners stop medication once itching improves, but mites may still be reproducing.This leads to relapse.

8. Not treating other pets in the home

If one dog has mange, others are likely exposed — even if they show no symptoms yet.

9. Letting dogs near wildlife attractants

Trash cans, compost bins, and food scraps attract mange-infected coyotes. This is a major overlooked risk.

10. Delaying the vet visit

Because mange spreads rapidly, waiting even 48–72 hours can turn a mild case into a severe medical emergency.

FAQ

Can dogs catch sarcoptic mange without ever meeting a coyote?

Yes. Most infected dogs have zero direct contact with coyotes. Sarcoptic mites spread through contaminated grass, soil, benches, shaded resting spots, and any surface an infected coyote has touched. Dogs can also catch mange from other infected pets or from environmental exposure during walks.

How long can sarcoptic mange mites survive in the environment?

Sarcoptes mites can survive 12 hours to 3 days depending on humidity and temperature. During outbreaks like the current one in San Francisco, this survival window is long enough to infect dogs simply by sniffing or walking through contaminated areas.

Is sarcoptic mange the same as regular dog allergies or flea dermatitis?

No. Mange causes extreme, relentless itching that is far worse than allergies or fleas. Dogs with mange often cannot sleep, cry while scratching, and rapidly develop hair loss and skin lesions.

Can humans get sarcoptic mange from dogs?

Yes, but only temporarily. Humans cannot sustain the mites long-term, but they can develop:

• itchy bumps

• red rashes

• brief dermatitisSymptoms disappear once the infected dog is treated.

How fast does sarcoptic mange progress in dogs?

Very fast. In many cases, symptoms become severe within 7–14 days. Without treatment, dogs may develop:

• bleeding sores

• bacterial infections

• crusted skin

• weight loss

• intense pain

Can indoor dogs get sarcoptic mange?

Yes. Indoor dogs still walk on sidewalks, grass, and parks where infected wildlife may have been. Even a short bathroom walk can be enough during an outbreak.

Is sarcoptic mange life-threatening?

In advanced cases, yes. Dogs can suffer from:

• severe infections

• dehydration

• hospitalization-level inflammation

• immune collapseWhile mange itself is treatable, complications can be dangerous.

What is the best treatment for sarcoptic mange?

Isoxazoline medications such as NexGard, Bravecto, Simparica, and Credelio are considered the most effective modern treatments. Lime-sulfur dips and medicated shampoos are usually added for severe cases.

Do all pets in the home need treatment if one dog has mange?

Often yes. Many veterinarians recommend treating all dogs in a household because exposure is extremely likely. Cats rarely host mites but may develop rashes and should be monitored.

Can sarcoptic mange recur after treatment?

Yes, especially if:

• isolation was broken early

• bedding wasn’t washed

• the dog returned to contaminated outdoor areas

• another household pet carries mitesReinfection is common without strict environmental control.

What are early signs owners should watch for?

• Sudden intense scratching

• Red bumps on elbows, belly, chest

• Small circular bald patches

• Difficulty sleeping

• Skin flakes and scabs

Early detection drastically improves recovery.

Should I avoid dog parks during the San Francisco outbreak?

Yes. Dog parks act as hotspots during outbreaks because multiple dogs share the same contaminated surfaces. Temporarily avoiding dog parks reduces infection risk significantly.

Can sarcoptic mange spread through my clothing or shoes?

Humans can carry mites on clothing or shoes for short periods. If you visited a high-risk area, it’s possible to bring mites home accidentally.

What should I do if I suspect my dog has mange?

Seek veterinary care immediately. Mange worsens rapidly, and early treatment prevents severe skin damage. Do not attempt home remedies — most worsen the disease.

How is sarcoptic mange diagnosed by veterinarians?

Vets typically use:

• skin scrapings

• mite microscopy

• clinical signs

• response-to-treatment approachBecause mites are hard to find, mange is often diagnosed based on symptoms and history.

Is sarcoptic mange contagious to cats?

Yes, but less aggressively than in dogs. Cats can show itching, red bumps, or mild rashes. They can also mechanically transfer mites to the environment.

Why are coyotes the main spreaders in this outbreak?

Because mange weakens them, infected coyotes wander into neighborhoods searching for food. They shed mites on grass, soil, and shaded areas, contaminating environments where dogs walk.

Does cold weather kill sarcoptic mites?

Cold reduces mite survival but does not eliminate them. Cool climates may even push infected wildlife closer to homes for warmth.

Can puppies get sarcoptic mange?

Yes. Puppies are highly vulnerable and can deteriorate quickly. Immediate veterinary treatment is essential.

Can I use over-the-counter treatments for mange?

No. OTC treatments are ineffective and can worsen symptoms. Only prescription antiparasitics work reliably.

How long does recovery take?

Most dogs improve within 3–5 days of treatment, but complete recovery — including skin healing — can take 4–8 weeks.

Should I keep my dog away from coyote-prone areas?

Absolutely. Avoid:

• wooded trails

• unlit parks

• tall grass

• garbage disposal zonesuntil officials confirm the outbreak has decreased.

Does grooming spread mange?

Yes. Grooming tools (brushes, clippers, towels) can transfer mites between dogs if not disinfected.

Can sarcoptic mange infect multiple dogs in the same neighborhood?

Yes. Neighborhood clusters happen frequently during outbreaks. Once wildlife contaminates an area, many dogs walking the same route can be infected within days.

Is professional home cleaning required?

Usually no — but thorough daily cleaning is required. Vacuuming, washing bedding, disinfecting surfaces, and medicated baths are essential for stopping reinfection.

Sources

• San Francisco Animal Care & Control (SFACC) — Official wildlife and public health advisories about mange-infected coyotes and urban pet risks.

• California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) — Reports and guidance on sarcoptic mange in coyotes and cross-species transmission in the Bay Area.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Sarcoptic mange (Scabies) zoonotic guidance, transmission pathways, and human exposure recommendations.

• UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine — Clinical information on Sarcoptes scabiei, diagnosis, and treatment guidelines for dogs.

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) — Sarcoptic mange overview, veterinary standards, and public health considerations.

• Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) — Evidence-based recommendations on mange transmission, environmental survival, and prevention strategies for dogs.

• San Francisco Chronicle — “Mange outbreak in S.F. coyotes poses risk to pet dogs, officials warn.