That hits the spot!

 While on vacation with a friend in the North Carolina mountains this past weekend, I noticed that one of her Golden Retrievers had a bald, shaved area on its right flank. When I asked her, “Did he have a recent hot spot treatment?" she said, "Yes." 

Summer is definitely on its way, as skin and ear problems often present themselves this time of year. Prevention is the best medicine, so let’s chat about this common skin problem of dogs (and occasionally cats).

What is a “hot spot”?

A "hot spot" is a wet, weepy overgrowth of the surface bacteria on the skin. As the bacteria overtakes normal skin defenses, a pet begins chewing or biting on the area in response to the itching and discomfort. Often pus, pain, and foul odor develop quickly as the irritated, debris exposed area crusts over the surrounding skin and hair. Hot spots are most commonly found in pets with a dense coat such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds, and Cocker Spaniels. Hot spots go by many names such as pyotraumatic dermatitis, superficial pyoderma, and acute moist eczema. Whichever term is assigned, they are all ways to recognize one of the most common problems of dense coated pets during the spring, summer and even fall months.  

How are they caused?

There are multiple causes of hot spots. Insect bites, fleas, pain, allergies, a damp coat (swimming, post bath, leaving out in the rain), skin folds, an especially dense coat that retains moisture, a contact allergy, irritating collars, ear & anal sac infections,  and anything that encourages a pet to scratch or chew their skin, thus leading to surface skin trauma.

That's a lot of causes, Dr. Betsy! So my question is, do they take a long time to develop? I took my dogs to a local lake to swim then left them for an hour at home, and found what I think is a "hot spot" the size of a tangerine upon my return! Is that possible? 

Yes, it's definitely possible! Once the skin is irritated, pets can obsessively chew and bite an irritated area quite rapidly. It is estimated that at least 30% of these pets had an underlying skin condition that allowed the sore to develop so quickly. It is important to check your pet's skin frequently to hopefully notice skin conditions early before hot spots begin.

Dr. Betsy, I heard that sometimes hot spots turn into Staph infections. Ewwww! What is the concern to pet owners with a a pet that has a surface “Staph bacterial infection?" 

There is only a low risk of infection to pet owners as people get a different strain typically. People get "Staph aureus" and pets get "Staph pseudoimtermedius."

What are the most common treatments prescribed for hot spots?

Initially, the best treatment begins with clipping the area (which sometimes requires sedation). The key is to set up a one to two inch barrier around the sore to keep the infection from spreading further.  A cytological exam may be performed as well to help determine the type of infection causing the hot spot and to rule out mange or other fungal infections. Then, a technician will begin washing the area with anti-bacterial soap followed by applying a topical antibiotic-steroid spray or cream. Depending on the extent of the infection & inflammation, an oral antibiotic and steroid/anti-histamine may be prescribed.  Sometimes an E-collar or "cone of shame" may be needed to keep a pet from self-traumatizing the area further.

What are some basic "first-aid" treatments for hot spots if you're in the mountains and unable to get to a veterinarian right away?

Try to keep your pet from further traumatizing the area. With a disposable razor, try to remove the hair near the wound as much as possible and then create a shaved barrier of at least 1 inch around the lesion. Cleanse the area with cool water and a topical antiseptic shampoo, then rinse, pat dry, and apply a triple antibiotic ointment. Sometimes a warm compress of a black tea bag can temporarily help alleviate discomfort in 5 to 10 minute intervals once or twice a day.  In addition, try to cut itching by administering Benadryl at 1mg per pound of weight twice a day. Do not use products containing zinc oxide (such as Desitin or diaper cream) as it is toxic to pets when consumed even in moderate quantities.

Should monthly flea and tick control be continued year round?

Absolutely. It can help prevent hot spots triggered by fleas and ticks. 

How can I put together an Emergency Kit to help cover such emergencies when away from home?

A pet Emergency Kit is an excellent idea. Patients of record are eligible to purchase a customized kit from Creature Comforts that takes into consideration the health needs, weight, and age of your animal. Let our staff know if you would like to purchase one. 

Celebrating the Joy Pets bring to our lives!

Dr. Betsy Sigmon, Hospital Director, Creature Comforts Animal Hospital

The below is a picture of Molly  and her favorite kiddo! Molly is owned by Melissa VanHouten.