How to take care of Hot Spots on Dogs

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Hot spots on dogs are a common skin condition usually occurring during the warm, summer months. They are also referred to as summer sores and moist dermatitis. These painful, oozing sores are difficult to deal with because they can appear seemingly overnight and spread rapidly.

Causes

While any dog can get hot spots, some dogs are more prone to them. These include dogs with dense undercoats such as Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Collies, and Labradors. Also, dogs that like to play in the water are more susceptible. This is because excess moisture is held against the skin by their coat. Most often, hot spots are a result of a dog’s excessive scratching, licking, and/or chewing on irritated areas. Unfortunately, this can create a vicious cycle that leads to inflammation and vulnerability to bacteria.

Underlying triggers 

Figuring out the underlining trigger is beneficial because it can help keep hot spots under control. Listed below are triggers that can lead to hot spots.

  • Parasites
  • Flea allergy dermatitis
  • Allergies to things in the environment such as grasses, trees, weeds, dust mites, etc.
  • Food allergies
  • Ear or skin infections
  • Anal sac disease
  • A dirty or matted coat
  • Moisture trapped in the coat from swimming or bathing

Symptoms of hot spots 

There are certain symptoms you can expect with hot spots. To begin with, hot spots can occur anywhere but are most often seen on the head, limbs, and hips. Hot Spots usually exhibit redness, swelling, and hair loss. The skin is raw and moist and may include an oozing discharge. Surrounding skin and hair may become crusty and matted. Your dog will continuously scratch an affected area because hot spots are extremely itchy and very painful for your dog.

Preventing hot spots

There are certain things you can do to help prevent hot spots. If your dog is in the water or out in the rain, be sure to clean and dry them off thoroughly. Schedule time to brush, bath, and groom your dog regularly. This is especially important during warm weather. Dogs that have matted, dirty coats are at a greater risk of developing hot spots. You may also want to trim or shave any hair around symptomatic areas. This will allow air to dry out any moisture and help speed healing. If your dog is scratching, chewing, and licking, you may also want to purchase a protective collar.

Treatment for hot spots

Curicyn Hot Spot Formula is fast-acting and promotes rapid healing. It cleanses and soothes hot spots while helping reduce inflammation and helping relieve irritation. It does not stain, burn, itch, or create any sensitivity to your dog when applied. In addition, it is non-toxic, steroid, and antibiotic-free. Just apply liberally to the affected area 2 to 3 times a day as necessary. Curicyn Hot Spot Formula works also for Lick Granuloma and other skin disorders.

* All Curicyn Animal Wound Care products include a proprietary ingredient that provides immediate relief, regenerates new cell growth, contains an anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and a natural pain reliever. In addition, it aids in expediting the healing process and gives the animal immediate relief.

Find a store near you that sells Curicyn

References

Millan, C. (June 18, 2015). Hot spots on dogs: causes and treatment. Caesar’s Way. Retrieved from https://www.cesarsway.com/hot-spots-on-dogs-causes-and-treatment/

PetMD. (n.d.) How to treat hot spots on dogs. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/evr_hot_spots_what_are_they?page=show

Racine, E. (June 19, 2019). Treating and preventing hot spots on dogs. AKC. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/treating-and-preventing-hot-spots-on-dogs/