If you’ve seen it once, it’s once too many AND chances are you’ll see it again. Hot spots are a frustrating problem for many pet owners and most certainly for the pet! Dogs in humid and coastal areas are affected more often because of the humidity.  Do you know what a hot spot looks like? It’s a very itchy sore on your dogs skin. You’ll know it’s itchy because your Buddy will be biting and scratching and irritating the spot further, most likely. The spot may become red, inflamed and infected. This shouldn’t be ignored and if you have any questions, you should always call your vet. There are many easy (if your pet cooperates!) home remedies to help relieve the itching and discomfort that a hot spot causes. Natural home remedies that are safe and probably already in your pantry.  I’d like to share a couple to get you started.

Seawater!! We have an abundance of that in Marshfield, lucky for us. Soak the area if you can for about ten minutes, if soaking is impossible, apply the seawater with a cloth, hold and repeat. Please don’t let your dog drink the water, they’ll get a bellyache. The ocean’s natural salt helps heal the wound on the skin. The ocean has healing properties for everybody!

Apple Cider Vinegar can be applied directly to the skin with a cotton ball for external relief.

Keeping a hot spot dry is another important factor in healing. You don’t want an infected oozy mess. You can make a paste with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a small amount of water and apply it to the hot spot. Apply to the inflamed area and leave on for several hours.

Lastly, a clean towel and a little shake a little tingle. #ShaqSays

There are many more safe and affordable options available online if you do your homework. However you choose to treat your dogs hot spots, ignoring them will only make it worse. Remember, relieve the itch, dry the area, kill the bacteria and heal the skin. You and your dog will have a happier summer!