Hot spots, also known as Summer Sores or Moist Eczema, can
make a dog and its owner miserable. The wet, skin lesions
appear and grow larger by the hour.

Dogs most susceptible to hot spots are those with heavy
coats and histories of allergies, ear infections, flea
infestations, irritated anal sacs, matted hair and tangles,
but any dog can be afflicted.

Most dogs that suffer from hot spots usually have allergies
or have been bitten by insects, such as ticks, mosquitoes,
and especially fleas.

The most common locations for hot spots are the legs and
feet, flanks, and rum, but these localized infections can
also appear on ears, neck, and chest.

To help prevent these infections:

Keep dogs free of fleas.

Comb often to keep hair loose and tangle free.

Rinse out all shampoo after bathing. Dried shampoo residue
can cause itching and irritation.

Sometimes adding an Omega Fatty Acid supplement to the dog’s
diet can help with many dermatological problems.

If a hot spot has started:

Hot spots require immediate veterinary attention as they can
double their size overnight and make pets miserable. They
require professional treatment of hair clipping or shaving,
cleansing, cortisone and antibiotics.

To keep hotspots more bearable before getting to a vet here
are some tips that dog owners have found helpful:

First wash the area in a mild water-based astringent or
antiseptic and dry.

Apply a very warm compress with a wash cloth with as hot of
water as can be used without burning.

Apply regular Listerine with a clean cotton ball.

Gold bond powder. Shake into hand and then apply to itchy
spot. Works immediately.

Soak hot spot with Epsom or sea salt solution.

Dry and dust with corn starch if irritated.

Aloe Vera gel, freshly squeezed from the plant, helps to
calm and heal.

Saturate a cotton ball with witch hazel and apply on hot
spots.

Apply a mixture of baking soda and water to the affected
areas

In severe cases, a veterinarian may suggest the use of an
Elizabethan collar to prevent the dog from scratching and
give the spot a chance to heal.

For more information on preventing and treating hotspots
visit:

http://www.apluswriting.net/petcare/doghotspots.htm

*****************************************
Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net
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Before you bathe your dog, brush out his coat. This helps loosen dirt that is close to his skin. In addition, grooming removes loose hair, which helps keep your drains from being clogged up with dog hair.

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