Polish Lowland Sheepdog - pons - pon the dog
White Star Pons, Florida
Carly Rose and Elli Mae Pups at 3 Weeks Old
Hot spots in PONS
"Hot spots", also called moist dermatitis, acute moist dermatitis, or Summer Sores, is a term used to describe a varied number of skin problems which are very common in the Polish Lowland Sheepdog. Anything that irritates or breaks the skin of a dog can create an environment perfect for bacterial contamination. And if the dogs skin surface has just a tiny bit of moisture on it, it doesn't take anytime at all for the bacteria to spread. Typically, these circular patches will lose hair, are swollen and and can be very itchy and painful to the touch. Also, this moist, raw skin disorder may have a lot of different causes, but the most consistent factor seems to be bacteria. The affected PON will feel compelled to scratch, lick, or bite the affected area to the point of self-mutilation. Skin redness, oozing, pain to the touch, and itchiness are all common signs that your PON has a hot spot.
Any PONS can develop these, but those PONS most susceptible to these infections are those with histories of allergies, ear infections, flea infestations, irritated anal sacs or grooming problems such as hair mats. PONS who live in warm, humid climates are more prone to develop hot
spots too when if they are not groomed thoroughly.
If the underlying cause is indeed tangled or matted hair, owners need to
put their PON on a regular and thorough grooming schedule to help reduce
this problem. Helpful Tips to treat hot spots:
• Increase the number of grooming sessions to remove all of the undercoat. Be careful not to scrape or damage the PON's skin by putting too much pressure on the comb or brush as you groom your PON.. • Damp coats are another problem causer. If your dog goes swimming, be sure to rinse the PON off with clean water and dry the coat thoroughly with towels or a hair dryer set on cool.
Alternatively, try a cup of black tea with aspirin in it. Here's what you'll need to do: brew up a strong cup of black tea and dissolve one regular aspirin .Afterward when the tea/aspirin mixture cools off you'll need to soak a cloth or rag in this mixture and apply it to the hotspot area several times a day for a few days - until the hotspot dries up. Cool compresses can be applied several times a day as well.
Medications such as oral antibiotics, topical drying sprays,special
shampoos Apple Cider Vinegar can also be applied on a daily basis. Pour a few drops of ACV into drinking water. In severe cases, your veterinarian may even suggest the use of an Elizabethan collar to prevent further self mutilation and to give the spot a chance to heal completely. If your dog needs veterinary help for any skin lesion, or hot spot, don't delay in making that call. Please send us updates and good luck. |