Hot spots or acute moist dermatitis is commonly seen in dogs with long hair or thick undercoats. They are suddenly occuring bright-red sore patches of skin, very itchy and painful.
The hair should be gently trimmed away from the sore area gently cleansed with mild antiseptic. A visit to the vet is usually best so that further treatment and pain relief can be prescribed.
Older pets with thick coats who love to sunbathe, are at risk from flies who may lay their eggs in thick damp fur. Sadly, the eggs hatch and then burrow deep into the skin causing severe, often fatal illness.
It is best to have the groomer trim the fur short especially around the rear end and to be vigilant.
Heart failure
Hot humid weather puts our older pets and those with excess weight at risk. Some large breeds such as Dobermans and Spaniels have an increased risk of heart failure.
A recent large study of such dogs has found that early diagnosis by blood test and specialist Ultrasound scan can detect patients at an early stage.
Treating these dogs with heart drugs has been shown to delay the onset of disease and prolong active life.
Lock-ins
In the hot weather cats frequently take advantage of cool garages and sheds. So please check carefully for feline guests before closing doors especially when going away.
by Jacky Macqueen