Hot Spot Treatment

Once you discover your dog has a hot spot, time is of the essence; in other words act quickly.  Examine your dog to determine the extent of the affected area; take scissors and clip the fur as close to the skin as you can in the affected area.  Cleanse the area with an antiseptic wash, pat the area dry after cleansing.  Avoid putting on salves to the affected area; a salve will keep the area moist and moisture is what you want to eliminate.  The area needs to dry out in order to heal.  Some people use tea bags for healing purposes (black or green tea); tea has a natural drying characteristic.  I have had great results with tea, use it four or five times a day.  I don't use the tea bag; I use already brewed tea and apply to the area with clean cotton balls.  Hot spots are very painful and itchy for your dog; application of witch hazel or tea helps to cool the area.  This is an inexpensive home treatment and I think worth giving a try.

Don't let a hot spot get out of control, if you don't want to try a home remedy then get to the vet quickly.  Many times they will prescribe a steroid spray and usually it is effective; you must use caution with a steroid spray avoid contact on your skin.

Tip provided by Brandykegs Saint Bernards.