Hot spots, or skin lesions, are patches of inflammation, infection and pain on the skin that can often be treated at home. Mild cases may even be managed without outside medical assistance.
Self-trauma can lead to infection due to excessive scratching, licking or chewing which in turn creates the perfect environment for bacteria growth that inflames an area of the skin causing swelling, redness and pain in that location.
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1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Hot spots, or inflamed skin areas that ooze, are typically caused by allergies or infections in dogs, but when continued licking, chewing, and scratching add to them further, leading to moisture lock-in and bacterial proliferation resulting in itchy areas that persist over time.
Apple cider vinegar offers many advantages as an at-home treatment for hot spots. With antifungal, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties that relieve itching while soothing skin. Furthermore, its effectiveness at controlling dandruff and odor is undeniable.
Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and apply to affected areas as a natural hot spot remedy for dogs. Use it several times each day or as needed. Adding Banixx, an anti-itching product available both online and at local pet stores, may further aid healing timeframe. Alternatively, for chronic or recurring hot spots consider visiting a holistic veterinarian who offers chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture as alternative solutions.
2. Aloe Vera
Hot spots on a dog’s skin can be extremely uncomfortable and could be the result of flea infestation, allergies, poor grooming techniques or matted fur. As hot spots can often be an indicator of something more serious ailment within their bodies, it is always important to consult your vet first if your pup exhibits these symptoms.
Aloe vera is an effective natural anti-inflammatory that can provide temporary relief for redness and itching associated with hot spots. You can either cut a leaf of the plant from your garden to apply directly or purchase pet-safe lotions or sprays that contain aloe as these have had any yellow saponins removed which contain latex compounds that would be dangerous if consumed by your dog.
Earthbath’s Wound + Hot Spot Relief Spritz for dogs is alcohol free and contains aloe vera to provide immediate relief from hot spots and itchy skin, while tea tree oil helps eliminate bacteria on contact.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to soothe hot spots in pets. Furthermore, its powerful aroma deters them from licking it.
Tea tree oil can be found at most natural health stores and online. Just make sure it’s pure, high-grade tea tree oil that is pet safe.
Calendula is an herb known to reduce itching and promote healing of skin tissue. Add it to your pet’s shampoo for use treating hot spots or any itchy patches on its body.
An optimal immune system is your best defense against hot spots in dogs. To support its function, try feeding fresh whole foods, supplementing with digestive tract support products like prebiotics and probiotics, essential fatty acids and pre- and probiotics; some people even give their pet Colostrum for its immunomodulatory benefits that help heal irritated tissues like hot spots.
4. Colostrum
Colstrum, packed with proteins and antibodies, provides your dog with numerous health advantages. It’s especially helpful for animals with autoimmune conditions as it regulates overactive immune systems and reduces leaky gut syndrome inflammation. Furthermore, colostrum also boasts antibacterial, antifungal, and antiyeast properties to ensure its safety for consumption.
Colostrum contains multiple hormones which play a vital role in helping young puppies transition into healthy adult dogs, speeding healing from hot spots more rapidly and supporting overall immunity to prevent future issues like autoimmune disease and other health concerns. If your pup needs extra support during his development process, supplementing his diet with this natural remedy could make a big difference!
At its onset, it’s essential to identify and treat hot spots as soon as they appear. Excessive scratching and biting traumatize the skin, leading to inflammation and irritation. Licking further aggravates wounds and promotes infections – so refraining from licking as well as cleansing with an antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine can reduce hot spot frequency while hasten healing time.
