Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are common skin irritations in dogs. These inflamed, red, and moist areas of skin can be caused by various factors, including allergies, insect bites, poor grooming, or excessive scratching. Hot spots can be uncomfortable and itchy for dogs, leading to further irritation and the potential for infection. Prompt veterinary care is important to properly diagnose and treat hot spots. Treatment often involves cleaning the affected area, shaving the surrounding hair, and applying topical medications to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Preventing hot spots involves addressing underlying causes, such as allergies or flea infestations, and maintaining good grooming practices to keep the skin healthy and free from excessive moisture or irritation.

Hot spots in dogs are more commonly seen during the summer for several reasons:

•         Increased moisture: Hot and humid weather during the summer can lead to increased moisture on a dog's skin. Excessive moisture can contribute to the development of hot spots, as it creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungal overgrowth, which can irritate the skin and trigger hot spot formation.

•         Allergens: Many dogs have allergies to environmental factors like pollen, grass, or certain insects, and these allergens are more prevalent during the summer months. Allergies can cause itching and irritation, prompting dogs to scratch or lick their skin excessively, which can lead to hot spots.

•         Insect activity: Summer is a time when fleas, ticks, and other insects are more active. Insect bites or stings can trigger an intense itching sensation, causing dogs to scratch or bite at the affected area. This excessive scratching can create a hot spot.

•         Increased outdoor activity: Dogs tend to be more active outdoors during the summer, engaging in activities like swimming, hiking, or playing in the grass. This increased activity can lead to more opportunities for skin abrasions, scratches, or moisture accumulation, making dogs more susceptible to hot spots.

•         Stress and boredom: Changes in routine, traveling, or increased outdoor exposure during the summer can sometimes cause stress or boredom in dogs. Dogs may resort to excessive licking, chewing, or scratching themselves as a coping mechanism, which can trigger hot spot formation.

While hot spots can occur at any time of the year, the combination of these factors during the summer months makes dogs more prone to developing hot spots. Proper prevention measures, such as regular grooming, addressing underlying allergies or parasites, and monitoring a dog's behavior and skin health, can help minimize the risk of hot spots during this season.