Feeling blue for Blue

The events of the last week leaves Blue with a troubled expression, in his eyes, you can tell he is not his normal self, even playing in the garden is very reserved.

Sunday morning and Blue has been out done his walk and business, in the night he had to have his buster collar put back on as he could be heard "licking" his wound.

Despite clearly being troubled by the oozing of the hotspot, he rarely has to be told not to lick the wound, and if he does, just the mention of his name and he stops.

It will take a while for the antibiotics and bacterial spray to kick in, and he is now having the Yumega oil put on his evening meal, so we are attacking this hotspot from outside and within.

For those that are unfamiliar here are some pictures up close and personal of Blue's hotspot

As you can see they are an unsightly sore, which must be kept as clean as possible, we have successfully removed some of the fur around the infected area, but at the moment it has spread a little further.

What is the cause, and why has Blue had them for a second time?

Searching the Internet, the most likely cause is anything which breaks the skin, such as a nick from a bramble, a tic or flea bite or anything that has broken the skin, which has become infected, due to the thickness and insulating properties of Blue's fur, bacteria has formed, which has also been moistened by the dogs natural tendency to lick their wounds.

Dogs with a naturally dry skin will also be more susceptible.

Thus you have the perfect breading ground for bacteria, an open wound and  moist warm environment to propagate growth.

Prevention is better than cure;

The lessons we have learnt from Blue having these hotspots for a second time;

• Many breeders and knowledgeable dog owners provide their dogs with a supplements such as coconut oil or an omega rich formula, within their food diet.
• Act sooner, with hot spots, the sooner you are fighting any infection the better chance you have of combating it, don't delay a visit to the vets.
• Regular grooming, especially with medium and long haired breeds. As well as a health check the benefit is the continuing strengthening of the bond between you and your dog
• Change routines, share grooming and inspections between family members, extends the bonding, and each of us has our own way in handling / grooming / inspecting our dogs
• Be more patient and pick up on the "postcards" normally a change in behaviour or posture is an early indication that something has altered.

Dare I state the obvious, the Internet has a wealth of free information, select the key word to search and knowledge, experience and free advice is there at your fingertips. But the real experts are the Veterinary profession, it is wise to be knowledgable and understanding, but consult with the professionals.

Blue has missed out on his usual swim last week, and will again not be going this week, once the sore has healed he will back in the pool having fun like before.