Health Guidance - Free Health Articles - http://www.healthguidance.org
Skin and Coat Problems: Make Them a Thing of the Past
http://www.healthguidance.org/entry/9205/1/Skin-and-Coat-Problems-Make-Them-a-Thing-of-the-Past.html
Amber Contant
Amber Contant is a featured adviser and author discussing the issues that all pet owning families will experience. She hopes that with her articles and writings she can educate owners through uncertain times. Also visit Amber's website for unique gift ideas for any occasion or holiday. Start planning for the perfect Valentines Day gift. 
By Amber Contant
Published on 09/9/2008
 
Dogs can suffer from a number of skin and coat problems; the skin can become inflamed and itchy, and the dog can begin to lose his hair.
Skin and Coat Problems: Make Them a Thing of the Past

Dogs can suffer from a number of skin and coat problems; the skin can become inflamed and itchy, and the dog can begin to lose his hair. Hot spots are one such problem that seems to appear out of nowhere. Even though the spots suddenly appear, there is an underlying cause. When treating hot spots, you must treat both the cause and the effect (the actual spot). Once you figure out the cause, it's up to you to prevent further spots on your pooch.

It's important that you realize that hot spots are pretty painful for your pooch. You may get annoyed with his constant scratching, but you can be sure he isn't enjoying it. So, try to start treatment on your pooch as soon as possible. If you have never had to deal with a hot spot before, you may want to contact or visit your veterinarian just to be safe. Your vet can make sure that it is, in fact, a hot spot. He or she can also recommend what treatment method is best for your pooch.

So, what does a hot spot look like? Basically, it is a raw, inflamed patch of skin with no hair. It may also emit a yellow or clear discharge. The spot is an infection, normally bacterial or yeast, which is irritated by your pooch's excessive biting, scratching, and licking. They can be located anywhere on your dog's body; although, they tend to show up in areas on the hindquarters or below the ears. Hot spots are sneaky; your pooch may be fine when you leave for work, and missing a large, round patch of hair when you return. The spots can develop and enlarge within a couple of hours.

Now, if you know what a hot spot looks like, and you are sure that the spot is a hot spot, it's time to start treatment. First, the skin itself needs to be treated. The hair should be clipped around the edge of the spot, exposing the outermost perimeter. Now, cleanse the spot with a mild soap and water or a mild antiseptic. Some veterinarians may recommend using a topical medication (such as a cortisone or an anti-histamine) to help with the itching. Make sure the product that you choose to use is designed for or safe for use on animals. If your pooch refuses to leave the spot alone, then you may need to temporarily use an Elizabethan collar or place socks on your pooch's back paws. Clipping his nails will also help prevent further damage to the skin. It's important that he does not continue to irritate the area.

Since you have treated the spot, now it is time to treat the cause. There are a number of reasons why your pooch may have developed a hot spot, so using a process of reduction may be your best bet. If your pet suffers from allergies, then the allergies could have caused the itchy skin. To find out what is causing your pet's allergies, you may need the help of your veterinarian. Even if you aren't able to pinpoint the allergens, your vet can start your pet on an allergy treatment program.

Other causes include fleas and ticks, ear infections, mites, and anal sac problems. Thoroughly examine your pooch; if the hot spot is near his ears then check his ears. If the spot is near his tail, then check his tail. If you notice fleas, discharge from the ears, black specks in the ears, or a strong odor coming from your pet's anus, then your pet may be experiencing an infection. You're your veterinarian help you treat your pet for the infection.

Often, pets with thick coats experience hot spots when the hair that has shed gets caught between the coat and the skin, causing the skin to itch. If your pet has a thick or long coat that tangles easily, then put him on a weekly grooming schedule. You may need to brush him multiple times a week to remove the dead hair. Not only will your pooch love the attention, but the two of you can enjoy the bonding time!

Hot spots are not fun for your pet, and there are a number of things that can cause the painful, itchy spots. You should treat the spot immediately, and then identify the underlying cause. You may need the help of your veterinarian, so don't be afraid to schedule an appointment.