I'm not sure about the costs of dips as I have never had my dogs dipped & my vets never have either. They use other products, like revolution, pills, shampoos & other skin salvants. It is very contagious if it is the sarcoptic mange so I would speak with your obedience instructor & notify him/her that your dog has mange, they may want you to wait a week to begin. Sarcoptic mange in dogs is the same as scabbies in humans so make sure you wash your hands well after handling him. $35.00 for an exam & skin scrape is a fair price. Good luck in class & with the healing!