Thursday, October 27, 2011

Hot Spots On A Dog's Skin

Dog Skin Allergies

If you think your dog has hot spots, to be read to recognize and treat these annoying, but common dog skin problem. First, it is important to correctly identify the condition of the skin. Hotspots on the skin of a dog in an area of skin hot, swollen and painful, 1-4 cm in diameter. Hair can be lost very quickly around the affected area and the site may release pus and give off a foul odor. These circular spots appearcan grow rapidly and in a few hours. If you can, try to lick your dog to chew or avoiding the delicate area to prevent this infection to progress.

Dog Skin Allergies

Usually the hot spots on the dog's skin can occur anywhere on the body - sometimes more than one location. An area frequently affected are under the ears of dogs with "floppy" ears or around the rear legs. Large breeds like Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain dogs and retrievers areparticularly vulnerable, with their big ears and a thick coat. They can avoid hot spots bathroom and regular maintenance of your dog. Brushing regularly will give your dog a beautiful coat healthy and to avoid excessive degradation. Even in warm, wet, always dry your dog thoroughly after bathing or swimming. The wetlands on the skin of your dog, increase the likelihood of developing a hot spot by strengthening the bacterial surface, can causeinfection.

Dog Skin Allergies

Another, slightly less common cause of hot spots on a dog's skin, is food allergies. Some dogs are more sensitive to their diet than others and will get frequent hot spot flare ups. Foods with high amounts of filler such as corn, peanut shells, cottonseed hulls etc. could be the culprit behind your pup's allergies and excessive itching. Most ingredients in dog food is listed in order of amount present, look for a dog food that has quality animal proteins (venison, duck, beef) listed long before any fillers or corn meal. Within about 2 weeks your dog should become (and remain) hot spot free.

Dog Skin Allergies

In the event that your dog develops hot spots, there are several ways to treat them. First, try to prevent your dog from scratching or licking the irritation (this can be a challenge). It should be said that before attempting any home treatment on your dog schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian to get an expert opinion. If the is severe most dogs will typically be sedated or anesthetized while the vet clips away any hair surrounding the infection. They will then cleanse the area with a medicated shampoo, apply medication and allow for the patch to dry.

The vet will probably send you home with some type of medication. You may be given an antibiotic steroid cream or powder which you'll need to apply directly to the sore, twice a day for about 10 to 14 days. Oral antibiotics are also sometimes prescribed and your dog may even be given an Elizabethan or BiteNot collar - to keep them from intense scratching and biting. Skin allergies and infections can be a scary ordeal but if you know your dog is prone to them - the right precautions can keep them in good shape and catching hot spots on dogs before they get out of hand is also key.

Hot Spots On A Dog's Skin

Dog Skin Allergies

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