My dog's hot spot is getting worse after using spray. What now?

Hello, sorry to hear about Charlie. It sounds like he may have a local area of infection. I agree that the area itself will likely take a long time to heal, however, if he is vomiting and having a lethargy (systemic signs) then this is more concerning for an infection that may be spreading to other parts of his body. This does warrant an emergency visit today. There is a high possibility that his vomiting and decreased appetite is associated with his wound and infection, but there are also other causes for these clinical signs as well. Hope this helps and best of luck!!

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Based on the picture, it does appear that this could be a hot spot. I typically recommend using products that soothe and treat infection. What I would recommend would be Well & Good Hydrocortisone spray (at Petco) and Miconahex + Triz spray and apply both of these twice daily until resolved. If there is no improvement within 7 days, I would recommend taking your dog in to be seen by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps!

Thank you for sending the additional information to our customer service email address! Yes, I agree with your suspicion that Kona likely has a hot spot. You can try to manage this area by first clipping the fur from the the affected area, as air flow to the area is important. Antiseptic sprays, like Vetericyn (https://vetericyn.com/product/vetericyn-plus-all-animal-wound-and-skin-care/?attribute_size=3oz), can work wonders when used a few times per day. One of the most important aspects of hot spot treatment is to prevent Kona from licking at this area. It may involve some tough love, but keep an e-collar (cone) on her until this area has fully resolved. Most hot spots show pretty significant improvement within a week or so. However, if it isn't improving in a week or gets worse at any point, Kona will need to visit her vet. While most hot spots can be treated with topical treatments, like the Vetericyn spray, some require courses of antibiotics and steroids. I hope this helps and that she's on the mend soon!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I can't say for certain since I don't have a "before" picture to compare to. But most hot spots are bright red, raw, and moist looking. If that was the case then yes, I definitely think there is improvement. I would absolutely keep the E-collar on at all times so he cannot lick/bite it. I would continue the spray - probably another 5-7 days or so. Of course, if you are worried about anything, please see your vet to be sure we're on the right track. Best of luck to you and Kobe!

That looks like a pretty nasty hot spot. Hot spots are caused by chronic moisture against the skin (which is common with a collar or something else wrapped around the neck). The best way to treat a hot spot is to clip the hair from the area so that it can fully dry out. You will need to use buzzing clipper, not a razor or scissors. You can try an OTC pet antimicrobial spray, but often prescription sprays or ointments work a little better since they contain a steroid and real antibiotics. You may also have to get creative in finding ways to prevent Peyton from scratching this area, as that will delay healing and can damage the skin. You can try socks, dog booties, or bandaging the feet to cover the nails. Unfortunately, due to the location, he won't be able to use an e-collar. If the hotspot isn't looking better in 48 hours, I would recommend that you have Peyton checked out by a vet.

This looks like an area of moist dermatitis or a hot spot. She probably had an insect bite or a small injury and has licked the area and made it more inflammed and larger. You need to use a cone or a shirt to stop her from getting to the area so it can heal. I would wash this with antibacterial soap and after rinsing apply a thin film of antibacterial ointment on it. You can also put some cortisone cream on it to reduce the itching and inflammation. Usually these heal quickly if you can prevent her from irritating the area. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Pearl.

Hi there. Most hot spots need antibiotic therapy. You can try shaving it and cleaning it with an antiseptic rinse which will sometimes be enough to make it heal, but if it doesn't resolve I would have Hunter seen by your veterinarian for antibiotics and to confirm that it is a hot spot. I hope that helps! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!