Treating Your Dog’s Hot Spots
Does your companion have red, itchy sores? Read below to learn how to treat your pal’s hot spots.
What Are Hot Spots?
Hot spots are also called “summer sores”. These are inflamed or infected areas of skin irritation or a small wound. They often look like wet scabs that may ooze or bleed. These irritations are hard for your furry friend to stop licking, scratching, or biting. So, it can be hard for them to heal. These spots can occur anywhere on the body but can also spread due to bacteria.
Hot spots are commonly caused by allergies, fleas, parasites, skin infections, or ear infections. Additionally, dogs that spend a lot of time in the water are more prone to hot spots because damp fur is an ideal environment for bacteria growth.
Treatment
Some hot spots need antibiotics depending on the severity. So, always get your furry friend checked out by your vet. But, you can try some at-home relief options. For example, you can trim the fur around the wound to prevent moisture trapping. Also, clean the irritated area with warm water and pat dry. You can also apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone ointment to aid in healing and relieve some itching. Additionally, don’t use bandages because exposure to the air is good for the healing process. So, you may consider an e-collar to prevent your pal from gaining access to the hot spot and biting or licking it.
Recovery
After you begin treating the hot spot, it can take about a week for the spot to begin to heal. However, once the spot is dry and doesn’t ooze, be sure to continue to keep the area clean and dry. Then, after two weeks, your companion’s hair will start to grow back. Additionally, fatty acids will help your pup’s hair growth and reduce itching!
Prevention
Prevention of hot spots is much easier than treatment. The best prevention of these spots is good hygiene, regular grooming, parasite prevention, and allergy management. Daily exercise is also important because boredom or stress can lead to licking.
Take preventative measures to keep your furry friend free from hot spots. If they do occur, be proactive and get treatment as soon as possible!