Hot Spots:
What Are They & How To Treat Them
21/02/23
Dogs are amazing animals that are loved by many.
They are man's best friend, and their love and loyalty are priceless.
However, dogs are also susceptible to various skin issues, one of which is hot spots.
Hot spots are a common skin condition in dogs that can cause discomfort and pain.
In this article, we will explore what dog hot spots are, how they start, and how to treat them.
What are Hot Spots?
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are moist and inflamed patches of skin that are usually painful and itchy.
Hot spots can occur anywhere on a dog's body, but they are most common on the head, belly, and paws/legs.
The spots are usually red and can sometimes ooze or bleed.
They are most common in dogs with long or thick coats and skin folds because moisture and bacteria tend to accumulate in the coat, making it an ideal environment for the development of hot spots.
This means dogs such as pugs, golden retrievers, and rottweilers are more likely to get hot spots than other breeds.
What Causes Hot Spots in Dogs?
Hot spots can develop due to a variety of reasons.
One of the most common causes is an allergic reaction to something the dog has come into contact with, such as grass, pollen, or certain foods.
Bacterial or fungal infections can also cause hot spots in dogs. This most commonly occurs in dogs where the skin is covered such as pugs (skin folds) or St Bernards (long coat).
In addition, dogs that are prone to licking or chewing their skin can develop hot spots. This behavior can be triggered by stress or anxiety, and it can cause a vicious cycle of itching and scratching that can lead to the development of hot spots.
How to Treat Hot Spots in Dogs
If your dog has a hot spot, we recommend seeking advise from your local veterinarian. They will be able to determine the underlying cause of the hot spot and provide the appropriate treatment.
In the meantime, there are several things you can do to help alleviate your dog's discomfort.
Clean the Affected Area
The first step in treating a hot spot is to clean the affected area. You can use warm water to gently clean the area around the hot spot.
This will help remove any debris, dirt, or bacteria that may be present.
Be sure to pat the area dry after cleaning, as moisture can exacerbate the problem.
Apply Topical Treatments
Once the area is clean and dry, you can apply a topical treatment to help soothe the skin and promote healing.
Try Pet Drs Hot Spot Gel.
It is formulated with powerful natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredients to soothe, repair and protect damaged skin.
Plus it's free from harsh chemicals and steroidal ingredients!
Prevent Licking and Chewing
One of the biggest challenges in treating hot spots is preventing your dog from licking or chewing the affected area.
This behavior can make the hot spot worse and delay the healing process.
To prevent your dog from licking or chewing, try using dog socks or small baby socks to cover the area.
Alternatively, you can use an Elizabethan collar (also known as a cone) to prevent access to the hot spot.
It's always important to regularly check your dog's skin for irritations such as hot spots, among other things such as ticks etc. Doing so will allow you to notice spots that are out of the ordinary, and start to treat them right away.
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