The dog’s skin is the largest organ of the body, yet it has a very limited number of ways in which it responds to trauma. “Hot Spots” or acute moist dermatitis are usually spots on the dog’s skin as a result of your dog’s itching, biting and scratching and can seem to crop up quite suddenly. A lot of these areas may become quite big and may show up anyplace on the dog. I find it very often in the spring time once the temperatures are warmer and the humidity is higher. The dogs with the dense undercoat, including Labradors, golden retrievers and rottweilers are susceptible to getting these types of spots on their face and neck. In many cases, areas located at the base of the tail are very likely as a result of fleas mainly because fleas would rather congregate in these spots. Quite a few dogs are so hypersensitive to fleas, the bite of one flea is enough to induce the dog to itch all over. Almost any injury can begin the process which the dog then exacerbates by continual chewing and licking which in turn results in a vicious cycle and will cause the hot spot to spread.

The dog normally has microorganisms that exists on their skin and as long as the skin is healthy, the germs rarely result in any trouble. However when something develops, for instance a fleabite, cut or allergic reactions, the dog starts to lick, bite, chew and scratch which will disturbs the defensive layer of the skin. Once that takes place, the microorganisms on the skin, as well as the germs in the mouth, setup housekeeping in the skin. This leads to a quickly spreading infection which may be rather painful. The area on the skin is red, raw and seems moist because the wound oozes serum and pus. The hair then mats down over the wound and the infection then spreads beneath the hair.

A trip to the veterinarian is frequently warranted. Quite often the fur has to be shaved off to stop the spread of the infection. Sometimes, these hot spots are so painful, the dog may need to be sedated in order to have the region cleansed and shaved. Antibiotics are prescribed to treat the infection and follow-up antibiotics are sent home. Sprays, ointments and medicated shampoos can also be prescribed to continue treatment at home.. For some dogs, a special collar can be utilized that can help deter the dog from chewing at the places.

The underlying source of the insult should also be tackled. If fleas can be found, then year round flea control may be prescribed.(over-the-counter flea control is not recommended) Pollen, food, and other allergens can also precipitate an attack. Oftentimes special diets with essential fatty acids and a novel protein source for instance salmon, lamb or venison may be prescribed to help heal the skin. Blood and skin tests can be preformed to help discover what the dog is allergic to and special allergy injections or prescription diets can be given.

Examine your dog daily for itchy spots and use flea control recommended by your veterinarian year round to help you avert hot spots from flea allergies. Routine grooming and brushing will keep mats from developing. If your dog is itching continuously, get him to the veterinarian to deal with the itching before the infection can develop.