Hotspots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, occur when dogs traumatize their skin, usually from excessive scratching, licking, or chewing. This self-inflicted damage leads to inflammation and a secondary bacterial infection, causing significant discomfort for our pets.
What Do Hotspots Look Like?
Hotspots are typically red, oozing, inflamed, warm to the touch, and can emit a strong odor. They can appear suddenly and grow rapidly, making it crucial to address them as soon as they are noticed.
Steps to Take if Your Dog Develops a Hotspot
- Prevent Further Irritation: The first and most crucial step is to stop your dog from further irritating the hotspot. The best way to do this is by using an e-collar or a cone. While many dogs dislike the cone, it's a temporary discomfort compared to the ongoing pain of a hotspot.
- Visit the Vet: Your vet can provide medication to help control the itching, which is essential to prevent your dog from causing more damage to the affected area.
- Identify and Treat the Underlying Cause: It’s important to determine what triggered the hotspot. Common causes include fleas, allergies, and ear infections. Addressing the root cause will help prevent future hotspots.
- Treat the Hotspot: Your vet will start by clipping the fur around the hotspot. This step can be painful for your dog, so it’s best done at the vet's office where mild sedation can be administered if necessary.
- Clean the Area: After clipping the fur, the area will be cleaned with a chlorhexidine solution to kill bacteria and reduce infection.
- Medication: Your dog will likely be prescribed antibiotics and possibly other medications to treat the infection and inflammation.
Don’t Panic
If you notice a rapidly-growing, red, oozing spot on your dog, don't panic. While hotspots can be alarming, they are treatable. Prompt veterinary care can quickly alleviate your dog's discomfort and prevent the hotspot from worsening.
Remember, preventing your dog from scratching, licking, or chewing at the hotspot is the key to a speedy recovery. Always consult with your vet for the best course of action and follow their recommendations for treatment and prevention.
