May
6
Allergy treatment – Bichon Frise: Hot Spots – free article courtesy of ArticleCity.com
Bichon Frise: Hot Spots
by: Janet Combs
“Hot spots” are surface skin infections caused when populataions of normal skin bacteria grow and overwhelm normal resistance. They ae generally curcular patches that lose hair, can be swollen, in extreme cases may exude smelly pus, and can be painfully itchy causing the dog to scratch, lick, or bite to the point of self mutilation. Untreated hot spots can spread and provoke a normally even-tempered dog to growl or nip when touched.
Dogs most susceptible to hot spots are those with heavy coats and histories of allergies, ear infections, fles infestations, iritated anal sacs and grooming problems such as hair tangles and mats. The most common location for hot spots is the legs, feet, flanks and rump. These localized infections can also appear on the ears, neck, and chest if the dog is continually scratching.
To treat hot spots 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. Thjee are over-the-counter products to deter the dog from licking and chewing. The #1 product for most breeders and handlers is called “tea tree spray” or melaluca alternifolia. It is supposed to have healing qualities as well as discouraging the dg from biting or licking himself due to the bad taste.
I also use a product called Sulfodene which specifically for hot spots. I have had good results with this and it can be purchased almost anywhere that sells pet products. (Department stores, grocery stores, etc.) If treated early hot spots may disappear in day or two. Sulfodene is a good early treatment product. Or, medicated powder. Dust the spot several times a day to dry any moisture and soothe the itch. This can also be purchased over-the-counter.
Creams and ointments are not recommended because they can seal in the infection and hinder recobery. Although, a prescribed ointment may be necessary if the area becomes infected. At this stage the hot spot needs to checked bya veternarian for treatament. Some pet owners demand a quick fix for the problem and aren’t tolerent of vets who require return visits. Some vets will give you that quick fix by prescribing steroids for allergies. This quick fix is called “Prednisone”. However, you are setting your Bichon up for serious problems later in life if you do this repeatedly. If you use the Prednisone do so sparingly. Once or twice a month during allergy season followed by antihitamines.
A steroid given over and over can affect the balance of cortisol in the dog resulting in a condition called “Cushings Syndrome”.
From “Bichon Frise: A Guide To Love And Care”
www.combsinfo.com
About The Author
Janet Combs has been breding and raising Bichons over twleve years in Southwestern Ohio. Over that time she has raised and sold more than 100 puppies from 3 Bichons. Buttons, Belle, and Annie.
All work contained in this book is the copyright of Janet Combs. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted for resale or used by any party without express written permission from the author.
Ok so 3 more posts today that I’ve dug up – I’m an information JUNKIE on this stuff lately. Give em a browse and let me know what ya reckon. They’re just from a few different sites I’ve been surfing lately that are generally good for information like this…
About Pollen Allergies | Fresh Outside and Healthy Indside
Because the symptoms often mimic other types of allergies, it is a good idea to visit a doctor to determine exactly what kind of allergy you are suffering from so that you can get proper treatment. Though you may want to, …
Allergy Treatment And Care Guide
People face some type of allergy to all sorts of things, this may include environmental allergens, odors, fumes, food, and cigarette smoke just to name a few. Allergy treatment and testing is required when symptoms become uncomfortable …
Skin Allergy Treatment | Allergy Relief | Allergy Remedies
Allergies are abnormal reactions to ordinarily harmless substances. The sensitizing substances, called allergens, may be inhaled, swallowed, or come into contact with the skin. An allergy is a disorder of the immune system which, …
Hope you enjoy the read as much as I did and please if you have something to say, use the comments form below to let everyone know your thoughts.
Have a great day!
Thinking about buying a home in Ann Arbor?
Mail this post
