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Hot Spots are a bacterial infection on a dog's skin, that can start very small and often go un-noticed until they are larger in size. A dog will lose fur in the area of the hot spot. In the early stages, the skin will be red and moist and will often appear round. The skin will be warm and your dog will constantly be itching at the area. Because of the irritation and the constant itching of the area, the bacteria and infection spreads fast. As the hot spot progresses it can start to ooze pus and smell.  Hot Spots hot spots! What has caused my dog's hot spot?The two main causes of Hot Spots are Moisture and Irritations. Sometimes the initial cause is one or both of these issues. Moisture sitting on a dogs skin, especially under a thick coat of fur, is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Dogs who are water lovers are especially prone to hot spots, due to the constant moisture within their coat. Additional factors that help keep moisture on a dog's skin is thick, knotted, matted or unmaintained fur, collars that don't allow the skin to breath or wearing coats/jackets without having a totally dry coat underneath. Irritations that cause a dog to scratch and itch constantly can lead to a hot spot in that area. Obsessive itching can be caused from a number of different reasons, including skin irritations, allergies, fleas, parasites etc. In this case, the hot spot and the cause of the irritation need to be treated at the same time, to prevent reoccurrence. Treatment of Hot SpotsA visit to your vet is needed. The area will likely be shaved to allow it to air and heal fast and your vet will prescribe the appropriate medication needed for a speedy recovery. It's also important to provide your vet with as much information as possible about the possible cause of the hot spot, as preventative measures may be able to be taken to prevent a flare up in the future. You can find more information or download our Hot Spot Brochure by clicking HERE!
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 Photo Credit: American Kennel Club The Bedlington Terrier
 Origin:
They originated in the British Isles and are direct decedents of the Asiatic Mastiff. Their job role and the fact they are have the look of a little bull, is where the name 'Bulldog' came from. They are known throughout the world now as the British or English Bulldog. Purpose: Sadly. the breed was originally used as a bull baiting dog. Their stocky, solid build and resilient temperament made them perfect for this sport. Thankfully, bull baiting was banned back in the 19th century and since then, the nature of the British Bulldog is very different. Coat care: Grooming of the Bulldogs coat is very easy, their short coat only needs to be wiped as needed. Their face requires daily attention to avoid build up in their folds and depending on skin folds around their tail area, this may need cleaning too. A damp cloth or hypo allergenic baby wipe is ideal to get in between all their folds, cleaning around their nose and eyes. Health & Temperament: Although they are now far removed from their original ancestors, the British Bulldog is still a brave and determined breed of dog, so if not for the faint hearted owner. When well socialised, they enjoy the company of other dogs and make great family pets. They love to get out and about and explore so daily exercise is needed. When kept in a fit and healthy condition, they also enjoy short spurts of running. They are protective of their pack and a great as guard dogs, giving off a deep and loud bark and appearing intimidating to anyone who doesn't know them. Unfortunately, there are a number of health issues the Bulldog is prone to. This is because of breeding practises over the years and also their body structure. Being a Brachycephalic breed (short muzzle/squished face breed) they are prone to breathing and eye issues. They are very sensitive to temperature and struggle to regulate their body temperature in both cold and warm weather. They must be inside dogs during extreme weather. The breed is also prone to mast cell tumors, skin infections, knee and hip issues. On average, the breed lives for 8 years. |
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