Hot Spots

What are Hot Spots?

Hots Spots are a bacterial infection on a dog's skin, that can start very small and often go un-noticed until they are larger in size. 
A dog will lose fur in the area of the hot spot. In the early stages, the skin will be red and moist and will often appear round. The skin will be warm and your dog will constantly be itching at the area. Because of the irritation and the constant itching of the area, the bacteria  and infection spreads fast. 
As the hot spot progresses it can start to ooze pus and smell. 

What does my dog get a Hot Spot?

The two main causes of Hot Spots are Moisture and Irritations. Sometimes the initial cause is one or both of these issues.
Moisture sitting on a dogs skin, especially under a thick coat of fur, is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Dogs who are water lovers are especially prone to hot spots, due to the constant moisture within their coat. Additional factors that help keep moisture on a dog's skin is thick, knotted, matted or unmaintained fur, collars that don't allow the skin to breath or wearing coats/jackets without having a totally dry coat underneath. 
Irritations  that cause a dog to scratch and itch constantly can lead to a hot spot in that area. Obsessive itching can be caused from a number of different reasons, including skin irritations, allergies, fleas, parasites etc. 
In this case, the hot spot and the cause of the irritation need to be treated at the same time, to prevent reoccurrence.  

How do I treat a Hot Spot?

A visit to your vet is needed. The area will likely be shaved to allow it to air and heal fast and your vet will prescribe the appropriate medication needed for a speedy recovery. 
It's also important to provide your vet with as much information as possible about the possible cause of the hot spot, as preventative measures may be able to be taken to prevent a flare up in the future. 

You can find more information on Hot Spots from our information brochure HERE. 

Common areas for hot spots to appear