Hot spots, also known as Summer Sores or Moist Eczema, can

make a dog and its owner miserable. The wet, skin lesions

appear and grow larger by the hour.

Dogs most susceptible to hot spots are those with heavy

coats and histories of allergies, ear infections, flea

infestations, irritated anal sacs, matted hair and tangles,

but any dog can be afflicted.

Most dogs that suffer from hot spots usually have allergies

or have been bitten by insects, such as ticks, mosquitoes,

and especially fleas.

The most common locations for hot spots are the legs and

feet, flanks, and rum, but these localized infections can

also appear on ears, neck, and chest.

To help prevent these infections:

Keep dogs free of fleas.

Comb often to keep hair loose and tangle free.

Rinse out all shampoo after bathing. Dried shampoo residue

can cause itching and irritation.

Sometimes adding an Omega Fatty Acid supplement to the dog's

diet can help with many dermatological problems.

If a hot spot has started:

Hot spots require immediate veterinary attention as they can

double their size overnight and make pets miserable. They

require professional treatment of hair clipping or shaving,

cleansing, cortisone and antibiotics.

To keep hotspots more bearable before getting to a vet here

are some tips that dog owners have found helpful:

First wash the area in a mild water-based astringent or

antiseptic and dry.

Apply a very warm compress with a wash cloth with as hot of

water as can be used without burning.

Apply regular Listerine with a clean cotton ball.

Gold bond powder. Shake into hand and then apply to itchy

spot. Works immediately.

Soak hot spot with Epsom or sea salt solution.

Dry and dust with corn starch if irritated.

Aloe Vera gel, freshly squeezed from the plant, helps to

calm and heal.

Saturate a cotton ball with witch hazel and apply on hot

spots.

Apply a mixture of baking soda and water to the affected

areas

In severe cases, a veterinarian may suggest the use of an

Elizabethan collar to prevent the dog from scratching and

give the spot a chance to heal.

For more information on preventing and treating hotspots

visit:

http://www.apluswriting.net/petcare/doghotspots.htm