One of the most frustrating things as a dog owner is to watch your pup scratching and itching to the point where the skin turns red and oozy. When this is localized, it is typically referred to as a hot spot. Not only is it painful, but dogs just can't seem to leave the spot alone. There are, however, some things a dog owner can do to help.
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Preparing the Sore
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Much of what causes hot spots to get worse is excessive moisture--of the sore itself and your dog's licking. Start by using electric hair clippers to cut away the dog's hair as close to the skin as possible. Trim a large enough section of hair to expose the entire hot spot. Use a water-based skin cleaner and carefully clean the area.
Treating the Hot Spot
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Once the hot spot is exposed and dry, soak two ordinary black or green tea bags in warm water for two to three minutes, and place the tea bags directly on the hot spot as a compress. Repeat this procedure four to six times a day. The tea bags will help dry out hot spot.
If the area doesn't respond after a few days of this treatment, try a topical antibiotic or cortisone cream.
Preventing Your Dog From Licking
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Although you want to find a way to prevent your dog from licking the hot spot, this can be challenging. If the hot spot is on the upper torso or upper portion of the front two legs, however, you can put a basic T-shirt on your dog. Place the shirt over the dog's head and bring the front legs through the arm holes. This will prevent the dog from licking certain spots.
You also can use an Elizabethan collar, which is a large cone-shaped device that is placed around the dog's neck and prevents her from being able to reach areas on her body.
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