The Dog Training Review

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 injury. “Hot Spots” or acute moist dermatitis are usually areas on the dog’s skin a result of the dog’s itching, biting and scratching and may often breakout rather suddenly. A lot of these places may become fairly big and can appear anyplace on the dog. I find it sometimes in the spring time once the temperatures are warmer as well as the humidity is higher. The dogs with the dense undercoat, like Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers and rottweilers are vulnerable to getting these spots on their face and neck. In many cases, areas discovered at the base of the tail are most probably because of fleas because fleas prefer to congregate in these areas. A number of 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 incessant chewing and licking which often results in a vicious cycle and causes the hot spot to spread.

The dog normally has microorganisms that lives on their skin and as long as the skin is healthy, the germs rarely result in any issues. But when something happens, for instance a fleabite, cut or allergic reactions, the dog begins to lick, bite, chew and scratch which will disturbs the protective layer of the skin. As soon as that happens, the microorganisms on the skin, and also the germs in the mouth, set up housekeeping in the skin. This results in a swiftly spreading infection which can be very 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 visit to the veterinarian is frequently warranted. In many cases the fur will have to be trimmed off to halt the spread of the infection. Occasionally, these hot spots are so painful, the dog may need to be sedated to have the region cleansed and shaved. Antibiotics are prescribed to take care of the infection and follow-up antibiotics are sent home. Sprays, ointments and medicated shampoos may also be prescribed to continue treatment at home.. For some dogs, a special collar may be used that will prevent the dog from chewing at the places.

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

Take a look at your dog daily for itchy spots and use flea control suggested by your veterinarian year round to help minimize hot spots from flea allergies. Routine grooming and brushing can keep mats from developing. If your dog is itching constantly, get him to the veterinarian to deal with the itching before the infection can manifest.