Hot Spots on Pets: What You Need to Know
By Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital

Have you ever noticed your dog suddenly scratching, licking, or chewing at one spot on their body—only to find a red, raw, and oozing patch of skin? That’s likely a hot spot, also known as acute moist dermatitis or pyoderma.

What Exactly Is a Hot Spot?

A hot spot is a localized skin infection that can appear suddenly and spread quickly. It’s typically caused by something that irritates your pet’s skin—like allergies, insect bites, moisture trapped in the coat, or even boredom or stress. Once the area becomes irritated, your pet's constant licking or scratching makes it worse, turning it into a painful, infected sore.

Common Signs of a Hot Spot:

• Red, moist, and inflamed skin
• Hair loss around the area
• A foul odor
• Constant licking, scratching, or chewing

Why Do They Happen?

Hot spots are more common in warmer months but can show up any time of year. Dogs with thick coats, like Golden Retrievers or Labradors, are especially prone. Triggers can include:

• Flea allergies
• Seasonal allergies
• Poor grooming or matted fur
• Moisture from swimming or baths
• Underlying skin infections

How Are Hot Spots Treated?

At Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital, we treat hot spots with a combination of:

• Clipping and cleaning the area to let it breathe
• Topical or oral medications to reduce infection and inflammation
• Identifying the underlying cause to prevent future flare-ups

The good news? With proper care, hot spots usually heal quickly.

What Can You Do at Home?

• Keep your pet’s coat clean and well-groomed
• Dry them thoroughly after swimming or bathing
• Use flea prevention year-round
• Call us as soon as you notice any skin issues—early treatment is key!

Is Your Pet Scratching More Than Usual?
Don’t wait for it to turn into a painful infection. Give us a call or book an appointment online. At Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital, we’re here to keep your pets healthy, happy, and itch-free.