Bichon Frise: Hot Spots
by: Janet Combs
“Hot spots” are surface skin infections caused when populataions of normal skin bacteria grow and overwhelm normal resistance. They ae generally curcular patches that lose hair, can be swollen, in extreme cases may exude smelly pus, and can be painfully itchy causing the dog to scratch, lick, or bite to the point of self mutilation. Untreated hot spots can spread and provoke a normally even-tempered dog to growl or nip when touched.
Dogs most susceptible to hot spots are those with heavy coats and histories of allergies, ear infections, fles infestations, iritated anal sacs and grooming problems such as hair tangles and mats. The most common location for hot spots is the legs, feet, flanks and rump. These localized infections can also appear on the ears, neck, and chest if the dog is continually scratching.
To treat hot spots trim the hair around the sore to prevent further spread of the infection and expose the edges of the lesion. Wash the area in a mild water-based astringent or antiseptic. Thjee are over-the-counter products to deter the dog from licking and chewing. The #1 product for most breeders and handlers is called “tea tree spray” or melaluca alternifolia. It is supposed to have healing qualities as well as discouraging the dg from biting or licking himself due to the bad taste.
I also use a product called Sulfodene which specifically for hot spots. I have had good results with this and it can be purchased almost anywhere that sells pet products. (Department stores, grocery stores, etc.) If treated early hot spots may disappear in day or two. Sulfodene is a good early treatment product. Or, medicated powder. Dust the spot several times a day to dry any moisture and soothe the itch. This can also be purchased over-the-counter.
Creams and ointments are not recommended because they can seal in the infection and hinder recobery. Although, a prescribed ointment may be necessary if the area becomes infected. At this stage the hot spot needs to checked bya veternarian for treatament. Some pet owners demand a quick fix for the problem and aren’t tolerent of vets who require return visits. Some vets will give you that quick fix by prescribing steroids for allergies. This quick fix is called “Prednisone”. However, you are setting your Bichon up for serious problems later in life if you do this repeatedly. If you use the Prednisone do so sparingly. Once or twice a month during allergy season followed by antihitamines.
A steroid given over and over can affect the balance of cortisol in the dog resulting in a condition called “Cushings Syndrome”.
From “Bichon Frise: A Guide To Love And Care”
www.combsinfo.com
About The Author
Janet Combs has been breding and raising Bichons over twleve years in Southwestern Ohio. Over that time she has raised and sold more than 100 puppies from 3 Bichons. Buttons, Belle, and Annie.
All work contained in this book is the copyright of Janet Combs. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted for resale or used by any party without express written permission from the author.
Top Care Tips To Keep Artificial Turf Clean
You can enjoy a lot of benefits if you install artificial turf for your lawn. First, artificial grass turf requires now watering and mowing. So, having artifical turf can reduce your water bill and you will not struggle with your lawnmower anymore. Second, artificial turf is durable and has an optimum lifetime of eight years. That is why your lawn will always look fresh and green artificial grass turf. However, you can extend the lifetime of your artifical turf if you properly maintain it. Here are some simple care tips to keep artificial turf clean and looking brand new.
Regular Washing
Artificial turf needs regular washing to remove dust, mud, and dirt. If you live in an area where there is sufficient rainfall, rain water would be enough to keep your artifical turf perfectly clean. On the other hand, if your locality has a low rainfall rate, you have to schedule regular washing of artificial grass turf every month.
It is not necessary to use a power hose when washing artificial grass. A good garden hose can do the trick. Just spray clean water over the turf to remove dust and dirt and allow the water to dry under the sun. While the turf is still wet, do not let your pets and children to play on it. It is also best to wash the turf in the early morning so it can get enough sun during the midday for easy drying.
Immediate Cleaning
If you have a pet, there is a great chance that it will urinate or defecate on your artificial turf. When you see a dog poop on your artifical turf, make sure to remove it immediately. Animal waste can adhere to the fibers of the artificial grass turf if you will not remove it immediately. There is also a good chance that bacteria will spread on the turf so make sure to remove the poop immediately and sanitize the area with disinfectant.
If your garden has lots of trees, you will also have to remove leaves from the turf. Leaves can leave stains on the artificial grass. You can use a leaf blower in order to quickly remove fallen leaves from the turf. Do not pick up the leaves with pointed sticks because these could damage the surface material of your artificial lawn.
Removing Tough Stains
There are stains that cannot be removed by water alone. For example, your artific
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ial turf can get stains from oil, ink, soot, blood, or chewing gum. These are tough stains and dirt so you may have to use other cleaning agents to thoroughly clean your artifical turf. Just make sure not to use highly corrosive agents in order to avoid damaging your artificial grass turf.
For removing oil and ink, you can use diluted or full strength neutral detergent and scrub off the stains. Rinse the area with warm water to remove the slick. To remove blood stains, you can use a salt solution, warm water and detergent. Apply the solution and scrub the stained area with semi rough cloth. These cleaning tips will keep your artificial turf stain free.
By: Jacks Turf
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