Hot spots or "acute moist dermatitis" is a bacterial infection appearing on your dog characterized by hair loss and an oozing, red and inflamed sore. The bacterial infection begins with a skin irritation to the dog which causes extremely uncomfortable itching. To alleviate the itching, the dog begins scratching, licking and chewing the area incessantly to gain relief. These bacterial infections not only appear very quickly but once the dog has begun the vicious cycle of scratching, licking and chewing, the infection becomes worsened very rapidly.
The most prevalent irritants to the dog's skin are fleas and allergies but there are many other causes such as ear infections, poor grooming, mange, or other insect bites. Boredom and stress have also been linked to hot spots.
Hot spots are most commonly found on the legs, feet, flank and rump where the dog can most easily access to scratch and lick, but they are also found on the ears, neck and chest. Long- haired dogs most commonly are afflicted with hot spots because bacteria become trapped under the long hair, creating a perfect environment for the bacteria to thrive. Dogs with floppy ears also commonly get hot spots because air does not circulate readily, fostering hot spots on cheeks and under ears.
- Area of hair loss with very reddened and infected skin
- Abundance of scratching, licking and chewing to the affected area
- Sore that omits an odor
- First step in the healing process is to keep the hot spot dry by cutting excess hair from around the infected area and allowing air to flow freely.
- Discover the possible irritants such as fleas or allergies.
- If you suspect allergies, work with your vet to discover solutions.
- Keep flees off your dog.
- Regularly bathe your dog to keep the hair coat in good condition.
- Keep your dog well groomed.
- Feed your dog a healthy, balanced diet.
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