Vets are urging dog owners to watch for a key symptom of skin problems as the UK braces for its fifth heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to climb above 35°C in some areas. The soaring conditions create ideal circumstances for dogs to suffer from skin complaints, leaving pets with itchy, inflamed and sore patches.
Hot spots: the first sign of trouble
Dr Sarah Page-Jones, head veterinary surgeon at Pet Drugs Online, said the initial indicator of a skin condition is what's referred to as a "hot spot" - otherwise known as acute moist dermatitis. These appear as red, inflamed and occasionally weeping lesions on the skin.
She said: "Acute moist dermatitis (hot spot) is especially common in thick-coated breeds during summer, when heat and humidity combined with excessive scratching and licking start to irritate the skin."
Flea allergic dermatitis risk rises
Sweltering summer conditions can also trigger another prevalent skin complaint in dogs - flea allergic dermatitis (FAD). Warmer temperatures mean fleas reproduce more rapidly, and if your dog has a sensitivity to their bites, it can result in severe irritation.
Dr Page-Jones advised: "To avoid flea allergic dermatitis, keep your pet up to date with prescription flea treatments to prevent infestations and the allergic reactions they can trigger. Environmental management may also be necessary to reduce the risk of fleas getting onto your pet. This can include using household sprays, regular washing of bedding, and regular hoovering. Treating flea allergic dermatitis starts with a trip to the vet, where they can prescribe the correct treatment to kill fleas and relieve symptoms."
Pollen allergies affect pets too
Much like summer can worsen pollen allergies in people, pets face similar challenges. Atopic dermatitis may develop from exposure to elevated pollen levels and result in severe itching for your dog. While it's a chronic condition, seasonal outbreaks are typical.
Dr Page-Jones explained: "Environmental allergens such as grass and weed pollens spike during the warmer months. This can cause pets to itch excessively, chew their paws, lick their groin, or rub their faces. Pets suffering from atopic dermatitis will be itchy and often have red, inflamed skin; they may also have a persistent stale odour as their natural skin barrier is damaged and they develop secondary infections."
To manage flare-ups, maintaining regular grooming is crucial to keep their fur clear of dirt and particles. Following outdoor walks, wash their paws and bellies to eliminate lingering pollen.
