Hot Spots on Dogs

Hot spots on dogs are very common. A hot spot is an area of moist, raw, inflamed skin and is usually quite itchy and irritating for a dog. The medical term is acute moist dermatitis or pyotraumatic dermatitis.

Where do hot spots appear?

A hotspot will generally occur around the neck, head or around the rump and sometimes on the trunk of the dog. Particular breeds such as Golden Retriever’s, Labrador’s, and Rottweiler’s are more prone to developing a hot spot.

Symptoms

Hot spots start as an itch or incessant scratching or licking by the dog which then will lead to raw damaged skin, the skin then oozes serum which causes matting of the hair. The wound on the skin surface promotes bacterial growth, which can make the hot spot even itchier and more irritated.

Hotspots can be triggered by flea infestation, ear infections, allergies or from the dog’s coat remaining damp after being in water. They are quick to develop and can progress within a matter of hours. Treatment is recommended as soon as they are noticed as the inflamed skin will rapidly spread.

How can they be treated?

Treatment starts with clipping away the matted hair over the hot spot. This reveals the extent of the lesion and will allow the area to dry out. Cleaning with a mild antiseptic then aids in removing the discharge and surface bacteria. A topical antibiotic/anti-inflammatory cream may then be applied to clean and soothe the lesion. Depending on the severity of the hotspot antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed to resolve deeper infection.

For more information about keeping your pet safe during the warmer weather, check out our post about how much water your pet should consume and how to prevent heat stroke in dogs.

If you think your pet is suffering a severe heat spot contact us on 9707 3855 or book an appointment through our booking tool.