Skin Scenarios: Helping Your Dog Stay Comfortable This Season
By Holly Bennett CVT
Reviewed by Dr.Wittenburg, DVM
As the weather warms up, we start to see more and more dogs coming through our doors with itchy skin, red spots, and other skin-related issues that are common during spring and summer. Many of these conditions can be uncomfortable for your pup, and in many cases, they can be preventable.
Here are some of the most common skin problems we see during the warmer months, along with tips to help your dog stay happy, healthy, and itch-free:
1. Hot Spots (Acute Moist Dermatitis)
Hot spots are painful, inflamed areas of skin that can develop quickly, especially if your dog gets wet and isn’t thoroughly dried, or starts licking and scratching excessively.
What you can do:
- Dry your dog thoroughly after baths, swimming, sprinkler fun, or rainy walks.
- Brush regularly to keep the coat healthy and prevent matting.
- Watch for licking or scratching that could lead to skin irritation.
Need help with grooming? Our grooming team is here to assist with baths and undercoat blowouts to help your dog stay clean, dry, and comfortable during the shedding season.
2. Seasonal Allergies
Many dogs develop skin reactions to things like pollen, grass, and mold. You may notice them licking their paws, scratching, or rubbing their face.
To help manage allergies:
- Wipe your dog’s paws and belly with a cloth or baby wipe (non-alcohol) after outdoor time
- Bathe with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo if allergens build up on their coat.
- If the itching is persistent, contact your veterinarian to help with allergy treatment options tailored to your pet.
3. Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks thrive in warm, humid weather. These pests can cause significant discomfort and even transmit disease.
Prevention tips:
- Keep your dog on a flea and tick preventive all year long.
- Check for ticks and fleas after time outdoors, especially in wooded or tall grassy areas.
- Keep your dog’s away from bunny nests and other outdoor wildlife, as they can carry external parasites.
- Wash your dog’s bedding regularly and vacuum your home often.
4. Sunburn and Skin Sensitivity
Yes, dogs can get sunburned too, especially those with light-colored or thin coats. The nose, ears, and belly are especially vulnerable.
What you can do:
- Avoid long periods of direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
- Apply dog-safe sunscreen to exposed areas when needed.
- If you notice scaly, red, or irritated spots, schedule an exam with your veterinarian.
5. Ear and Skin Fold Infections
Moisture and warmth can lead to yeast and bacterial growth in areas like ears, armpits, paws, and skin folds.
Prevention and care:
- Clean your dog’s ears with a veterinary-approved ear cleaner.
- Dry between toes and in skin folds after swimming, bathing and rainy walks.
- Let your veterinarian know if you notice redness, odor, or discharge. Early treatment is best.
When to Call Your Veterinarian
Don’t wait to call if your dog:
- Is constantly scratching, licking, or biting at their skin
- Develops any red, raw, or oozing areas
- Has an odor coming from their ears or skin
- Seems more uncomfortable than usual
We’re Here to Support You and Your Dog
Our entire team is committed to keeping your dog comfortable and healthy through every season. Whether it’s providing relief from allergies, treating a skin infection, or just giving your pup a fresh bath and brush-out, we’re here to help.
Have questions or need to schedule a grooming or veterinary visit? Give us a call, we’re happy to assist.
Warm wishes for a safe, sunny, and itch-free season!
Brook-Falls Veterinary Hospital
📞 262-781-5277
Reviewed by Dr. Wittenburg, DVM
