Occurrence of Canine Sarcoptic Mange in and Around Hyderabad

Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious and zoonotic ectoparasitic skin disease of dogs caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis (family Sarcoptidae). The disease is characterized by erythema, pruritus, alopecia, scaling and crusting. The present study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of sarcoptic mange in dogs in and around Hyderabad, Telangana, and to assess its association with selected risk factors, including age, sex and breed. A total of 256 dogs of different ages, sexes and breeds presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, and Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres were examined from July to December 2025. Among the 256 dogs examined, 30 were found to be positive for Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis by examination of deep skin scrapings, indicating an overall prevalence of 11.72%. Sex-wise analysis showed that males accounted for 63.33% (19/30) of the positive cases. Dogs aged ≤ 1.5 years accounted for 73.33% (22/30) of positive cases, compared with 26.66% (8/30) in older dogs (> 1.5 years). Indigenous breeds accounted for 53.33% (16/30) of positive cases, compared with 46.66% (14/30) in exotic breeds. The chi-square test indicated statistically significant differences for all three variables. Overall, the findings suggest that sarcoptic mange remains a significant dermatological issue in the study area, particularly among younger dogs and indigenous breeds. Regular screening, early and accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment strategies are important for controlling the infestation and reducing potential zoonotic exposure.