Skin Infections
Localized skin infections, or what’s are sometimes called “Hot Spots,” are usually caused by a bacterium called Staphylococcus Intermedius, although other bacteria can be involved. In most cases, the cause remains unknown, although they are often due to some underlying factor such as fleas, mites, bacteria, allergies, or irritants (e.g. a harsh shampoo). In some cases, a severe essential fatty acid deficiency may also be the cause.

It is suspected that increases in the temperature and humidity of the skin environment may play a role in the development of these skin infections. This is probably why hot spots tend to be more common in the summer than in the winter. Often, hot spots may occur after a dog has been swimming in a lake or river, likely because this changes the temperature and humidity of the skin microenvironment. Dogs that are prone to allergies also tend to get hot spots more readily than non-allergic dogs.

At one time, all hot spots were thought to be the same and, as a result, were all treated the same way. However, research has shown that there are actually two distinct forms of hot spots (also known as acute moist dermatitis), namely superficial hot spots and deep hot spots. Correctly identifying which type of hot spot your dog has helps the veterinarian to determine the correct treatment and possibly even the cause.

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