Hot Spots!

[Singefur]

My Jerry Lee has a hot spot just over his hip bone. It seems to be drying up, but I just want to help the healing process. Before I call the vet for some outragiously overpriced prescription that I could get at Walgreen's, I was wondering if you guys have any home remedies for me to try.

Thanks!

[RedyreRotties]

What has worked for me in the past is to clip the hair off if necessary.

If you have Betadine, make a warm solution the color of strong tea, and using these compresses, clean until all necrotic material is gone.

Pat dry. Blot with original Listerene followed by a generous dusting of Gold Bond powder.

[Dogs of Romance]

this is going to sound really weird but i have used this for years and i swear by it.

vasaline mixed with a good douche powder. this makes for an anti fungal, antiseptic cream that doesnt cost alot of money.

[SalemWitchChild]

Just use some rubbing alcohol. Yes it will burn, but it will take care of the hot spot.

[pung-yo]

DOR---the same thing was given to me by a malamute breeder. And I know it works cause I saw her dogs when they needed it.

[southern_girl09]

Two approaches are neccessary for dealing with hot spots: treat the sore and remove the underlying cause to prevent recurrences.
Veterinary dermatologist Lowell Ackerman recommends the following treatment in his book Skin and Haircoat Problems in Dogs:

• trim the hair around the sore to prevent further spread of the infection and expose the edges of the lesion;
• wash the area in a mild water-based astringent or antiseptic;
• be prepared to use antibiotics or cortisone if the washing does not give results.

Ackerman recommends against the use of ointments or creams because they can seal in the infection and hinder recovery. In severe cases, a veterinarian may suggest the use of an Elizabethan collar to prevent mutilation and give the spot a chance to heal.

[Simon Says]

i work at a vet...... wash the area with COOL water and make sure to saturate it well, that will relieve the itching. next we will blot the area dry, depending on how bad the spot is we will treat with a MILD cortizon shot and probably some allergy medicine. Hot spots are usually caused (depending n where you live) but an allergy, usually flea, if it is on the hip. if the spot doesn't look much better in a day or two, I would highly recomend that you call you vet.

[Singefur]

The hot spot is drying up. I am using the Betadine solution and it is making it heal wonderfully!

[fehu1331]

If he's outside a lot and you notice flies at all...there is this stuff called blu...I know there's more to the name but can't think of it it's an antibiotic/ scab protectant. You can get it from most feed stores. It comes in a spray can. But be careful with it if you get it on your clothes it will stain and will be on your skin for a couple days.