How to treat a hot spot

Does you dog have long or matted hair? Does he itch? If you answered yes to these questions then it is possible at some point that you dog will develop a hot spot. This is generally a raw ulcerated area of skin that can become very painful for the dog.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Clippers
• White Distilled vinegar
• water
• antibiotic cream
• medical grade honey
• petroleum jelly
• muzzle
• mild shampoo (baby soap).

1. Preparation: Mix 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water in an empty spray bottle.

2. Identify the area that the hot spot is at and shave the area. If the hot spot is already painful and raw, you may need to use petroleum jelly to cover the wound and protect the skin. If the dog is painful you may also need to muzzle him to prevent him from nipping while you are shaving the area.

3. Clean the area with a mild soap. Baby shampoo is generally ideal for this, as it is hypoallergenic and it is non toxic if a residue remains on the skin. Rinse and pat dry.

4. Spray some of the vinegar mixture on the wound. This will help to maintain an appropriate pH. Spray a light misting on the wound twice a day, followed by antibiotic cream. If the hot spot is profusely oozing applying a light coating of honey instead of antibiotic cream will help stave off the oozing and will provide an antibiotic barrier while promoting skin regrowth.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that you are gentle when dealing with the raw skin. Dogs can be unpredictable and make act outside of their norm in order to protect a perceived injury.
• If you live in a humid climate or if you animal lives outside, make sure that you monitor the animal for fly eggs and maggots. If you see fly eggs, rewash the area. If you see maggots, you may need to get medical attention for the site.
• Make sure that you keep the wound clipped. If you don't then it is possible that it could be getting much worse instead of better.
• If you notice a foul odor, spreading redness, warmth radiating from the hot spot, or the skin turning a dark color seek medical attention immediately. Intervention is needed as soon as possible.