05/22/2026
Lake days are the BEST days… until hot spots show up. 🌊☀️🐾
During lake season, moisture trapped in the coat, bacteria, irritation, and constant licking can quickly turn into painful hot spots. Hot spots are more than just itchy skin; they’re inflamed, uncomfortable areas that can spread FAST if left untreated. Redness, swelling, moisture, irritation, and excessive licking or chewing are all signs your dog’s skin barrier is crying for help.
Catching hot spots early is key to stopping them from spreading, and using targeted skin therapies like Triple Oil and SOS Anti-Itch Gel from Iv San Bernard can help soothe irritation, calm itching, support healing, and protect the skin while it recovers. If you notice any signs of irritation or hot spots, contact me immediately so I can help!
To help prevent hot spots at home, always rinse lake water, algae, sand, and debris out of your dog’s coat after swimming, and make sure they are completely dry — especially in thick coats, under collars, between toes, and around the ears, where moisture gets trapped easily. Regular brushing, keeping the coat clean, and avoiding damp fur sitting for long periods can make a huge difference in keeping the skin healthy and irritation-free. Professional grooming also plays an important role in prevention by helping maintain a clean, healthy coat and catching irritation early before it becomes a bigger issue.
Key things to focus on after lake days:
✨ Thorough cleansing to remove lake residue, bacteria, and buildup
✨ Proper drying techniques to prevent trapped moisture
✨ Deshedding and coat maintenance for better airflow
✨ Skin-focused products to soothe irritation and support recovery
✨ Early detection of redness or problem areas before they worsen
Healthy skin starts with proper grooming, hydration, and consistency. Healthy skin = happy dogs. 🫶🏻