Does your dog have a moist, itchy, painful area on its body? It could be a hot spot. These patches of irritated skin can show up one day and should be treated by your local urgent care vet and emergency vet as soon as possible to prevent infection and discomfort.
What Are Hot Spots?
Hot spots are localized areas of skin inflammation and infection that can occur on your canine companion. They can be anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the head, hip, or chest area. These inflamed skin areas are superficial but can grow to cover a large area and become very painful. Hot spots are often caused and aggravated by your pup licking, scratching, and chewing at the irritated area. That's why it is important to contact your local urgent care vet or emergency vet as soon as possible.
Causes of Hot Spots
Underlying cause that incites a dog to excessively lick and scratch.
Matted fur
Fleas, mites, insect sting or bite, allergic reaction, or injury
Boredom or stress-related psychological problems
Signs of Hot Spots in Dogs
These types of skin lesions can appear suddenly and grow rapidly because a dog may continue to lick, chew, or scratch at an affected area. Your pup will usually be agitated and obsessive and will not leave the area alone. Sometimes, hair can mat over the lesion, obscuring the problem's size and degree, and your dog may growl or snap if the area is touched because it is painful.
Here are some signs and symptoms of hot spots to watch out for:
Redness.
Oozing.
Pain.
Itchiness
Hair loss.
Treatment
As soon as you notice any of the above symptoms call your local urgent area vet or an emergency vet. Hot spots can grow and spread quickly and because of the possibility of a deeper skin infection, it's better to get ahead of it when the inflamed area is the only minor.
How to Prevent Hot Spots.
Some hot spots are preventable but unfortunately not all. However here are some grooming tips that we recommend in order to help your dog avoid hot spots:
Regular grooming.
A stress-free environment.
A strict flea control regimen.
Shaving or clipping of long coats, especially in the summer months.
Toys, exercise, and play to avoid boredom.
We want to make sure your pet is always in great health so if notice any of the above symptoms and think your pup has a hot spot don’t hesitate to give us a call and bring your pet in. We are open every day of the week, even on holidays, and are dedicated to helping every animal that walks through our door.
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