Public Health Aspects of Mange in Dogs in Urban Households of Lagos State

Mange caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. canis and Demodex canis represents a common ectoparasitic condition in urban dogs with potential zoonotic implications. This study investigated the prevalence of mange among household dogs in selected urban areas of Lagos State, South West Nigeria, and assessed public health awareness among dog owners. A cross-sectional survey was conducted across three local government areas, encompassing 150 owned dogs. Skin scraping samples were collected from dogs with visible lesions and examined microscopically. A questionnaire targeting 100 dog owners assessed awareness of mange transmission, treatment practices, and human skin condition histories. Sarcoptic mange was confirmed in 24% of examined dogs, while demodectic mange accounted for 9.3%. Among owners of scabies-positive dogs, 31% reported recent human skin itching episodes consistent with scabietic infection, suggesting transmission. Only 18% of dog owners had ever consulted a veterinarian about skin conditions, and majority managed lesions with self-prescribed home remedies. The study concludes that sarcoptic mange in urban Lagos dogs constitutes an underappreciated zoonotic risk, particularly in households with children. Recommendations include veterinary awareness campaigns, community-level dog health programs, and integration of mange control into urban dog management strategies. Keywords: mange, Sarcoptes scabiei, zoonosis, urban dogs, Lagos State