The bacteria that causes the infection associated with a hot spot is bacteria that is constantly present on the dog’s skin In certain conditions, that bacteria is allowed to grow at a rapid rate, unchecked. This rapid bacteria growth makes the dog’s hot spot infection too severe for the canine immune system to handle on its own and medication and regular care become necessary in order to heal the hot spot.
Why Do Hot Spots Occur in Dogs & Other Pets?

Dogs with thick fur, a thick undercoat, matted fur, or long fur are most at risk of developing acute moist pyoderma, especially when the hot spots are allowed to develop and fester unnoticed due to the dog’s thick or matted fur. Veterinarians have also found that dogs who are prone to ear infections and dogs with a history of allergies are most at risk when it comes to developing hot spots.
The dog’s thick coat or matted areas of fur hold in moisture and block air flow to what starts out as a small canine skin infection. But in the absence of air flow, bacteria grows and multiplies at a very rapid rate in the moist area of skin, resulting in rapid formation of hot spots in dogs.

Contributing to the development of hot spots is the dog’s tendency to lick, bite and scratch at the skin sores, which further damages the skin, adds moisture to the equation and introduces additional bacteria into the dog’s open skin sore.
Skin parasites are often associated with hot spots and skin sores, as the dog’s frequent scratching breaks the skin’s surface, and bacteria contaminates the tiny wound, leading to the formation of an infected skin sore.

How Do You Treat Hot Spots?
Hot spots often require oral antibiotics to promote proper healing, and preventative measures like daily brushing and grooming for thick-coated dogs can also help to avoid the formation of acute moist pyoderma – hot spots – in dogs.

The first step to treating acute moist pyoderma involves cutting away mats and shaving the dog’s fur in a manner that exposes the edges of the hot spot. Air flow is vital to preventing the build-up of moisture that triggers the rapid growth of bacteria and skin infection in dogs.

Once the hot spot is exposed, the area must be washed and disinfected three times a day. Dog owners should use an anti-bacterial soap like Dial to wash the sore. Once that’s complete, the area should be patted dry and Betadine – a disinfectant solution available in the first aid section of the drug store – should be applied to the area to kill off bacteria.
Once disinfected, a thin layer of antibiotic cream (not ointment – cream only) can be applied to the skin’s surface to promote healing.

In addition, most hot spot sufferers will require an Elizabethan Collar, also known as an “e-collar” or “lampshade collar” to prevent licking and biting at the hot spot, as this will only introduce additional moisture and bacteria.

Severe cases of actue moist pyoderma will require a prescription for oral antibiotics from the veterinary clinic.
Hot Spots in Cats

Notably, cats can also develop acute moist pyoderma hot spots, particularly when matted fur is present. The treatment for cats with skin infections, sores and hot spots is essentially the same, though careful monitoring is required for cats due to the tendency for feline skin infections to turn into abscesses – pockets of infection beneath the skin.

The Elimination Diet
A simple elimination diet may be effective in determining what ingredient may be causing the undesirable response. Sometimes trying a RAW diet or switching to a new protein source and reducing the diet down to one or two ingredients can be effective.
If you do not notice any considerable changes after modifying your pet’s diet, it may be that it is experiencing a reaction to a contact or inhaled allergen. In this case, you may want to reduce the overall chemical load by switching some basic household products, eliminating air fresheners and trying gentle, organic, non toxic cleaning products.

Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies may be difficult to avoid, but can certainly be managed. Your pet may benefit from a daily bath to remove pollens and possible triggers from her coat. Be sure to use a hypoallergenic shampoo and a conditioner to seal in the moisture so that the skin does not dry out extensively, exacerbating the skin itch. An oatmeal or baking soda bath may also be soothing.

It can be helpful to think of your pet’s immune system as a cup. Each allergen it is exposed to adds more and more water to the cup until it overflows. This is when the allergy symptoms tend to peak and cause the most discomfort.
It is important then, to have the immune system functioning as strongly as possible. A Bee Pollen supplement is sometimes helpful, especially for combating seasonal allergies and will also strengthen the immune system. You will also want to consider supplementing with a high quality Omega 3 fatty acid (fish oil) and an Omega 6 oil (flax seed). Digestive enzymes and probiotics are essential for building and maintaining a strong immune system.

A Natural Approach to Symptom Relief
Avoid cortisones as they will further weaken the immune system. Instead, try a Licorice Root supplement, which acts as a natural cortisone, reducing swelling and redness.
Slippery Elm may be taken internally or applied externally as a poultice to areas of the skin that are red or raw.

Garlic will boost the immune system and will repel fleas, which may be another cause of skin itch.
Vitamin E may also be used externally to treat wounds or taken internally to treat skin conditions.
Finally, it’s important to note that our furry friends are very perceptive of our emotional state. As they are not able to verbalize their worries, sometimes, their concerns manifest as skin conditions. Pay very close attention to any household changes that may be a hidden cause of their distressed itching. Emotional support is key in achieving a holistic approach to healing.