Over The Counter Medicine For Dog Hot Spots
Dogs are known to be very active animals. They love running, jumping, and playing around. However, sometimes they can develop skin problems such as hot spots. Hot spots are areas of the skin that become inflamed and infected, causing pain and discomfort to your dog. They can be caused by a variety of factors such as allergies, flea bites, and poor grooming habits. If your dog has hot spots, you can use over the counter medicine to relieve the symptoms. In this article, we will discuss the best over the counter medicine for dog hot spots.
What are hot spots?
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are areas of the skin that become inflamed and infected. They are usually red, moist, and very itchy. Hot spots can appear anywhere on your dog's body, but they are most common on the head, neck, and hips. They can be caused by a variety of factors such as allergies, flea bites, and poor grooming habits.
Symptoms of hot spots
The symptoms of hot spots include:
- Red, inflamed skin
- Moist and oozing sores
- Foul odor
- Intense itching and scratching
- Hair loss
- Pain and discomfort
If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent the hot spots from getting worse.
Over the counter medicine for hot spots
There are several over the counter medicines that you can use to treat hot spots in dogs. These include:
1. Hydrocortisone cream
Hydrocortisone cream is a topical cream that contains corticosteroids. It is used to relieve itching and inflammation associated with hot spots. You can apply hydrocortisone cream directly to the affected area 2-3 times a day. However, it is important to note that prolonged use of hydrocortisone cream can cause thinning of the skin and other side effects.
2. Antiseptic sprays
Antiseptic sprays such as chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine can be used to clean the affected area and prevent the spread of infection. You can spray the antiseptic directly onto the hot spot and surrounding area. However, it is important to avoid getting the spray into your dog's eyes, nose, or mouth.
3. Antibacterial shampoos
Antibacterial shampoos such as benzoyl peroxide and chlorhexidine can be used to cleanse the affected area and prevent the spread of infection. You can use the shampoo to wash your dog's coat and skin, paying particular attention to the hot spot. However, it is important to avoid getting the shampoo into your dog's eyes, nose, or mouth.
4. Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel is a natural remedy that can be used to soothe and heal hot spots. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. You can apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel directly to the hot spot and surrounding area 2-3 times a day.
Conclusion
Hot spots can be a painful and uncomfortable condition for your dog. However, with the right treatment, you can relieve the symptoms and prevent the hot spots from getting worse. Over the counter medicines such as hydrocortisone cream, antiseptic sprays, antibacterial shampoos, and aloe vera gel can be used to treat hot spots in dogs. If your dog has hot spots, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent the condition from worsening.