Hot Spots on Dogs
Hot Spots on Dogs
Some dog hot spots include the dog park, the beach, or the local pet shop. However, dog hot spots are also a common, yet very painful condition that many dogs suffer from every year. Essentially, a hot spot is an irritated area on the dog’s body that ranges from the size of a quarter to the palm of one’s hand. The skin is infected as a result of any number of causes, and then exacerbated as the dog continues to lick and scratch the problem area. While hot spots are very common and agonizing, they can be easily treated and prevented.
Hot spots can appear as a result of many different issues. Dogs with heavy coats are especially prone to hot spots as their hair can become matted (especially before shedding) and moisture builds up and presses on the skin. It is also harder to spot a hot spot early on when a dog has longer hair. If a dog is plagued with fleas or mites, they tend to scratch and lick at themselves and form hot spots. Sometimes a dog may experience an allergy, either from its food or from the air it is breathing. Hot spots are especially common in the summertime when airborne irritants are most prevalent. Some dogs suffer from “separation anxiety” and lick a certain area constantly when left alone, causing a sizable hot spot. In many cases, the animal’s diet does not contain the essential vitamins and nutrients that are necessary to ward off coat and skin conditions.
Treating an existing hot spot depends on the severity of the specific spot. In minor cases, ointments such as Neosporin may be applied to the area several times a day until the spot disappears. Many people have had success using powders to try the area; Goldbond is a good one. In more severe cases, a trip to the Vet may be necessary. A veterinarian will clean and dry the spot, then potentially prescribe an anti-biotic or cream. In every case, it is important to keep the dog from continuing to lick the hot spot. Elizabethan collars are a good way to prevent continuous licking and scratching.
Luckily, there is a solution that will allow your dog to enjoy a happy, hot spots free life. Using supplements, especially those containing lecithin, omega fatty acids and vitamin E can prevent hot spots altogether. IN® Diet Supplements for dogs have a 20 year track record of clearing up and preventing hot spots. In case after case, dogs that are prone to constant hot spot break outs begin an IN® regiment and never see another hot spot. Supplements can compliment your dog’s existing diet and provide all of the vitamins, nutrients and fatty acids that their food is lacking. Dog food is cooked at very high temperatures and as a result, much of the nutritional value is burnt out. Try a supplement and see what a difference it can make.
