Contents
Dogs Get Hot Spots and How to Treat Them
Dogs are our true companions are deserving of the best care. And as much as we love and care for them, dogs can be susceptible to health and skin problems, one of which is hot spots.So how do dogs get hot spots and how to treat them.
(Above is a hot spot spray for dogs)
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis. This when the skin is red, irritated, and painful skin lesions that can develop in dogs. And these skin disruptions can spread usually appear suddenly and can spread rapidly, causing discomfort to our furry friends. In this blog post, we will discuss why dogs get hot spots and what we can do to prevent and treat them.
Causes of Hot Spots on a Dog
Hot spots are caused by various factors, including:
Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to various things. This an include: food, flea bites, yeast in their skin, and environmental allergens such as pollen and mold. Allergic reactions can cause intense itching, which leads to scratching and biting, which can result in hot spots.
Parasites
Fleas, ticks, and mites can all cause skin irritation and itching, which can lead to hot spots. It’s essential to keep your dog protected from these parasites by regularly grooming them and using flea and tick preventatives.
Poor Grooming and Hygiene
Dogs with long hair or thick coats are more prone to hot spots aka moisture dermatitis, especially if they are not groomed regularly. Mats and tangles can trap moisture against the skin, which can lead to hot spots. Using a good clippers for thick fur will help to expose the areas so you are best able to treat it.
Stress and Boredom
Dogs who are stressed or bored may excessively lick or bite their skin, leading to hot spots.
Trauma or Injury
Any injury or trauma to the skin, such as a cut, scrape, or bite, can lead to hot spots if left untreated.
Preventing Hot Spots in Dogs
Preventing hot spots in dogs is be challenging, but there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk, including:
Grooming Schedule
Regular grooming, including brushing, bathing, and trimming, can help prevent mats and tangles that can trap moisture against the skin.
Gentle Shampoo for Dogs
In addition to grooming on a regular basis it is important to use gentle and hypo allergenic shampoo to treat a dogs delicate skin.
Flea and Tick Prevention
Use flea and tick preventatives to keep your dog protected from parasites that can cause skin irritation.
Entertain Your Dog to Distract Them
Dogs who are bored or stressed may excessively lick or bite their skin. Provide your dog with plenty of toys and playtime to keep them entertained.
Proper Nutrition
Feeding your dog a well-balanced diet can help keep their skin healthy and reduce the risk of allergies.
Regular Vet Check-ups
Regular check-ups with your vet can help catch any skin problems early before they develop into hot spots.
Step by Step – Treating Canine Skin Hot Spots
If your dog develops a hot spot, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent it from getting worse. Here are some steps you can take to treat hot spots in dogs:
1. Clip the Hair Around the Hot Spot
Clipping the hair around the hot spot can help keep the area dry and promote healing.
2. Clean the Affected Area
Use a mild antiseptic solution, such as diluted chlorhexidine, to clean the hot spot. This will help prevent infection.
3. Apply a Topical Treatment
Apply a topical treatment, such as a hydrocortisone spray or aloe vera gel, to help soothe the hot spot and reduce itching.
4. Keep Your Dog from Licking or Scratching
Prevent your dog from licking or scratching the hot spot by using an Elizabethan collar or covering the area with a bandage.
5. Consult Your Vet
If the hot spot doesn’t improve or becomes worse, consult your vet. They may prescribe antibiotics or recommend additional treatments to help your dog recover.
Conclusion Dogs Get Hot Spots and How to Treat Them
Hot spots are uncomfortable and painful for our dogs. But they can be prevented and treated with a good grooming regimen, change of diet and of course taking your dog to a vet to get a correct diagnosis.
Recommends: Best Dog Training Program
Our favorite: The Dunbar Academy Training Program. If you want a happy and obedient dog, this is one of the best online dog training programs available today! You can get the first month free using dunbar.info/RescueDogHappiness <We also created a QR Code for you to use as well, you can download the image below to share it.