What Creates ‘Hot Spots ‘ in Dogs?

The dog’s skin is the largest organ of the body, however there is a very limited number of ways in which it responds to trauma. “Hot Spots” or acute moist dermatitis are areas on the dog’s skin a result of your dog’s itching, biting and scratching and may seem to develop rather suddenly. These spots may become pretty large and may emerge anywhere on the dog. I find it quite often in the spring time once the temperatures are hotter and the humidity is high. The dogs with the heavy undercoat, including Labradors, golden retrievers and rottweilers are prone to developing these types of hot spots on their face and neck. Typically, spots located at the base of the tail are most probably caused by fleas since fleas love to gather in these spots. A few dogs are so allergic to fleas, the bite of one flea is sufficient to cause the dog to itch all over. Any kind of trauma can start the process which the dog then exacerbates by continuous chewing and licking which often results in a vicious cycle and causes the hot spot to spread.

The dog normally has microorganisms which resides on their skin and as long as the skin is healthy, the germs seldom result in any complications. But when a problem occurs, say for example a fleabite, cut or allergies, the dog starts to lick, bite, chew and scratch which will disturbs the defensive layer of the skin. When that takes place, the microorganisms on the skin, in addition to the germs in the mouth, set up housekeeping in the skin. This results in a swiftly spreading infection which is often extremely painful. The spot on the skin is red, raw and seems moist because the wound oozes serum and pus. The hair then mats down over the wound and the infection then spreads beneath the hair.

A visit to the veterinarian is generally called for. Oftentimes the hair has to be trimmed away to stop the spread of the infection. Sometimes, these hot spots are so painful, the dog may need to be sedated in order to have the area cleansed and shaved. Antibiotics are given to manage the infection and follow-up antibiotics are sent home. Sprays, ointments and medicated shampoos are often prescribed to continue treatment at home.. For some dogs, a special collar may be used that can help prevent the dog from chewing at the spots.

The root source of the insult also needs to be addressed. If fleas can be found, then year round flea control may be recommended.(over-the-counter flea control is not recommended) Pollen, food, and other allergens can also precipitate an attack. Sometimes specific diets with essential fatty acids and a novel protein source for instance salmon, lamb or venison may be recommended to help heal the skin. Blood and skin tests can be preformed to help discover what the dog is allergic to and special allergy injections or prescription diets can be given.

Examine your dog daily for itchy spots and use flea control suggested by your veterinarian year round to help you minimize hot spots from flea allergies. Regular grooming and brushing will keep mats from developing. If your dog is itching constantly, get him to the veterinarian to deal with the itching before the infection can manifest.

Originally posted 2010-06-24 15:25:32.

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