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Hot Spots

 

Acute moist dermatitis or “hot spots” are a common skin disorder in dogs. ”Hot spots” can appear suddenly and become large red, irritated lesions in a short time.

 

”Hot spots” are the result of intense chewing and licking. The inciting cause is usually an insect bite reaction. Fleas, ticks, biting flies and even mosquitoes have been known to cause acute moist dermatitis. Allergic skin disease can cause or contribute to the formation of “hot spots”. It is usually a large, raw, inflamed and bleeding area of skin. The area becomes moist and painful and begins spreading due to continued licking and chewing.

 

The underlying cause should be identified and treated, if possible. Flea and tick preventives should be applied at the time of treatment. Anti-inflammatory medications and antibiotics are often used to relieve the intense inching and to combat secondary skin infection. These may be injectable drugs, oral tablets and capsules or topical preparations. Prognosis is good with treatment. The condition usually resolves as rapidly as it developed. Unfortunately, dogs that have “hot spots” are more likely to experience recurrences. Flea control and proper bathing and grooming are your best defenses against future “hot spots”.