07/29/2025
As the summer progresses we see more and more skin issues in the form of parasites, allergies and the dreaded hot spot.
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis or pyotraumatic dermatitis, are areas of inflamed, infected skin on dogs that appear red, moist, and often painful. These lesions are usually a result of excessive licking, chewing, or scratching at a specific area, often triggered by an initial irritant like an insect bite or allergy. The constant irritation leads to a cycle of inflammation, infection, and further licking, making the spot grow and become more severe. They can be caused by allergies, parasites, skin infections, moisture (particularly now when dogs are swimming and being bathed more).
Symptoms:
Red, inflamed, and moist skin.
Hair loss in the affected area.
Swelling.
Pain and itching.
Oozing or discharge from the lesion.
Matted fur in and around the spot.
Increased licking, scratching, or chewing at the area.
Today Lisa brought her own dog in for a hot spot. What started small and seemed to be getting better expanded overnight into a big area of redness and swelling. Clipping away the fur over the area is the first step to treating. Then cleaning and applying a topical medicated cream to promote healing. Depending on infection a dog may need oral antibiotics but Koa’s was caught before needing them. (Although he isn’t happy with his shaved spot as he’s very vain). Hopefully after a few days of topical treatment it will resolve. While any dog can get a hot spot, certain breeds like Goldensand Shepherds tend to be prone to them.
