Treating Dog Eczema Hot Spots With Anti-Bacterial Ointments

Canine eczema is a common problem for dogs and can lead to skin lesions. Hot weather can lead to summer sores or hot spots. Summer sores, another name for canine eczema resulting from hot weather, can make a dog lick and bite the area. Skin lesions result from the moist eczema. Antiseptic, veterinary prescribed powders, and anti-bacterial ointments can greatly improve the condition.

Preparing the Affected Area

If the fur over the canine eczema is shaved, it allows for better airflow and easier cleaning and treatment. Moist eczema is exacerbated and will heal very slowly if wet fur continues to aggravate the skin. It is then important to scrub and clean the area with antiseptic to reduce the presence of the bacteria causing the eczema. If skin lesions are present, the cleaning may need to be more gentle to avoid bleeding and pain.

The Benefits of Anti-Bacterial Cream

When a dog develops canine eczema, the skin is being attacked by bacteria as well as the aggravation from the licking and gnawing the dog does on the area. An inflammation and skin lesions can develop. Bacteria are always present on the dog's skin. Canine eczema develops when this bacteria grows too rapidly on the dog's skin, often because of moisture. The dog's immune system cannot handle the amount and speed of the bacteria growth and the skin becomes inflamed and irritated. Consistently reducing the presence of the bacteria is the best way to rid the dog of summer sores and moist eczema. Applying a vet approved anti-bacterial ointment or cream will provide immediate relief for the dog as well as treating the canine eczema. Cream is the better choice for a dog's skin as an ointment adds to the moisture causing the eczema. The cream needs to be applied regularly, usually twice daily, on a consistent basis. An anti-bacterial soap can also aid in relieving the hot spots.

Additional Treatments

While anti-bacterial ointment is essential in the treatment of canine eczema, other treatments can provide additional relief and healing. If the infection is severe and skin lesions are in advanced stages, a course of antibiotics may also be indicated. In the case of moist eczema, drying out the area with a powder containing an anti-histamine will provide immediate relief. It also discourages the dog from biting and chewing. Vitamin E oil is a natural healer when applied directly to the skin when used in very small amounts and alternated with a powder or anti-bacterial cream. Adding grapefruit seed extract to the canine diet can also help with canine eczema by keeping the intestines cleaner and less prone to attack by internal bacteria and yeast that leads to skin problems.

The best way to treat canine eczema is to prevent it. Keeping the dog's fur brushed and clean keeps bacteria at bay. Many foods can cause problems in the skin for some dogs. If your dog is prone to developing canine eczema, reducing poultry, grains, and processed foods may keep the dog's digestion healthier with a stronger immune system.

 

Comments