Canine and Dog Hair Loss
Dog owners are often concerned when their dogs develop hot spots. These skin lesions may be red, inflamed or oozing. If left untreated, hot spots may become more severe. The good news is that hot spots can be treated. The good news is that a hot spot is an extremely common skin condition and responds well to treatment.
What are the Hot Spots on Dogs
Hot spots, also known as Pyotraumatic Dermatitis or Acute moist Dermatitis, are infected, moist and inflamed areas of your dog’s skin. You might initially mistake a hot spot for an insect bite. If left untreated, a hotspot can grow into a painful, open, red sore. The lesion can be easily seen if there is hair loss. A hot spot may be hidden if the dog’s fur is matted.
Most hot spots start innocently. Some dogs may have skin allergies, which can cause them to scratch and chew their skin. Some dogs will gnaw on their skin in boredom. Many dogs have an allergic reaction to their food. The constant scratching and itching can eventually cause skin damage. A skin irritation can lead to itching, scratching, and further trauma.
Hot spots can also be caused by moisture. Dogs who love to swim and wade in the summer can stay wet longer than you think. Breeds with thicker or more dense coats such as Labradors and German shepherds can trap water. The perfect environment for bacteria growth can be created when moisture is trapped between the dog’s skin and coat. Hot spots are more common in the summer heat.
Hot spots can also be triggered by the following:
Poor hygiene and grooming
Hot Spots and Symptoms for Dogs
If your dog develops hot spots, you may notice the following symptoms.
A well-defined, reddened area that feels warm and wet.
This skin condition can occur anywhere on a dog’s body. However, hot spots are most common on the dog’s head. Often, it is located behind the ears. The hips, neck, and legs are also popular locations. The most popular area, likely because it’s the easiest for dogs to chew on, is his paw.
Dogs with hot spots
Hot spots in dogs should be reported to your veterinarian immediately. This will allow the doctor to rule out any other conditions such as ringworm. Your veterinarian may recommend topical and oral antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections if your pet develops hot spots. You might also consider the following:
Trim or clip the hair around any lesion. The trimming will prevent your dog’s hair from becoming matted around the sore. Use a gentle cleanser to keep the lesion clean and free of dirt and hair.Apply a non-toxic, anti-bacterial/fungal spray to the hot spot to discourage bacteria from growing in the lesion. Some sprays also contain ingredients that can soothe irritation from hot spots.
Peanut butter can be used to stop your dog from eating the antiseptic spray on the hot spot. This will distract your dog for long enough to allow the antibacterial spray time to dry. A short walk can help distract your dog. If your dog continues to lick or chew at the hot spot you might have to place an Elizabethan collar, also known as the cone-of-shame, around his neck. This should stop your dog from scratching or licking at the affected area in most cases.
These are the top products that we have used to treat dog hot spots.
Vet’s Best Dog Hot Spot Itch Relief Spray | Relieves Dog Dry Skin, Rash, Scratching, Licking, Itchy Skin, and Hot Spots | No-Sting and Alcohol Free | 16 OuncesPrice:$11.49You Save:$3.50 (23%)
You can treat the hot spots with Vet’s Best hot-spot relief spray. To soothe the area, you can also apply Blissful Dog elbow butter. The Elizabethan Collar should be worn for several days as your dog may try to lick it.
The Blissful Dog Elbow Butter Moisturizes Your Dog’s Elbow Calluses – Dog Balm, 1-OuncePrice:$7.35You Save:$1.60 (18%)
Hot Spots on Dogs
Although it is impossible to avoid all hot spots, there are some ways you can help your dog prevent them from developing in the future. Your veterinarian should be your first stop. It’s possible that your dog could develop another painful hot spot if you don’t find the cause.
These are some of the issues that can lead you to hot spots. Here are some helpful steps to avoid them.
Allergies
Itchy skin can develop in dogs with allergies to food or environmental substances. Your veterinarian can conduct tests to determine if your dog is experiencing allergy symptoms. Your veterinarian can advise you about any changes that should be made in your pet’s lifestyle or diet, and prescribe medication if needed.
Insect Bites
Dogs may also be bitten by insects. It is important to apply flea and tick preventions regularly to your dog in order keep these pests away.
Bad Hygiene
Keep your dog’s coat clean and tidy if it has a thick or double coat. Regular brushing and frequent trips to the groomer will prevent your dog from developing mats that trap moisture and bacteria. Have your pet’s mats clipped if they develop. After baths, or whenever your dog swims, it is important to dry your pet thoroughly.
Boredom
Dogs that aren’t getting enough exercise or mental stimulation might engage in self-destructive behaviors like obsessively chewing on their skin, licking it, and scratching its skin. This behavior is similar to human fingernail biting. Australian shepherds and border collie breeds are bred for work, and they tend to become bored easily. To prevent them from developing bad habits, these dogs need to be exercised regularly.
Physical issues
Senior dogs and those with health problems may spend more time lying down than others, which can cause pressure points or abrasions to their bony areas such as their hips or legs. Dogs with arthritis may try to relieve the pain by biting, licking, or chewing on their affected areas. Keep several mats or beds with padding for your elderly or sick dog around the house.
There are good news for dogs with hot spots!
Most hot spots will heal within a week if you give them proper treatment. Your dog will be able to live with the pain again with preventive care.
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