Hot Spots: The Basics

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

28 Aug 2007 02:56 PM

If your dog has a raw, open, oozing sore, it may be a hotspot! Also known as a superficial pyoderma or pyotraumatic dermatitis, this is a surface skin infection that can pop up quickly and be very painful or unpleasant for both dog and owner.

How do hot spots start? Any dog can develop a hot spot, but there are some things you can watch out for.

• Dogs with heavy coats may develop hot spots when shedding, if undercoat hair gets trapped next to the skin.
• Dogs with histories of skin allergies may be susceptible to hot spots.
• Dogs who are susceptible to ear infections may develop hot spots from frequent itching -- this is what happened to my Lally!
• Dogs with grooming issues like hair tangles and hair mats may be susceptible to hot spots.
• Dogs in warm and/or humid climates may develop hot spots during shedding season.
• Dogs with separation anxiety or other behavior issues may lick or chew sores into existence.

Hot spots are most often seen on the legs, feet, flanks, and rear end -- these are areas that can be reached by licking or biting. Scratching with the feet can also help start a hot spot on other areas of the body, like the chest, neck, and ears.

A hot spot is relatively easy to spot. The sore is usually circular, red, and inflamed. You may see your dog losing hair around the hot spot, or the hair nearby may become matted with discharge. The area may be swollen and sensitive -- watch for signs of pain or discomfort in your pet. The hot spot may weep blood, pus, or other fluid. They are painful and itchy, so you may see your dog scratching, licking, or biting at the spot. Lally was rubbing her face and neck against the material of the couch to scratch at her hot spot.

An untreated hot spot can spread, making your pet even more uncomfortable and unhappy.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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