hot spots and dull coat

Question
   One of my dogs (I have 4) has hot spots. The vet sold me Genesis spray that works great on the hot spot, but what can I do to help stop her from all the scratching? No , she doesn't have fleas.      
   Also, my dogs have a dull coat. I feed them lamb and rice (per vet). Is it true that a raw egg will make them shine? Will it make them sick, and how often can I give one?

Answer
Hi Shirley,

The Genesis spray is a good idea, especially because your vet suggested using it. However, just treating the symptoms and not the root cause of the condition will do nothing to stop the cause of the itching and dry skin/poor coat.

Raw eggs would be counter productive to add to your dog's diet. They contain an enzyme called Avidin which decreases the absorption of biotin (a B Vitamin). This can lead to skin and hair coat problems. Raw eggs may also contain Salmonella.

That lamb and rice food you're feeding your dog (the one with the hot spots), if contains other ingredients such as corn (or parts of corn such as corn gluten) it could cause a food intolerance or allergy that can be causing the hot spots and dull coat.
You can try doing a feeding trial of a different brand of food, with a novel source of protein and carbohydrate source, such as fish and sweet potato to see if there is improvement over about 6 weeks of use. During this time period, your dog should not receive any other foods or treats that may skew the results of the trial.

Trim the hair around the sores to expose them to the air, wash the area in a mild water-based astringent or antiseptic and either pat dry, or use a hair drier (rubbing to dry the area will cause them to itch!).
You can apply either 100% pure Aloe Vera Gel, or dab on some Witch Hazel to the sores to help them heal and help stop the itch. Applying either treatment right before you take her out on a walk, will give it time to sit on the skin and do some good, instead of being licked right off.
If the hot spots are in an area that the dog can reach on her body, having the dog wear a cotton t-shirt might help to prevent mutilation and give the spot a chance to heal.

You can try using a Flax oil supplement. Flaxseed oil is a naturally rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, and is also a good source of Omega-6 fatty acids. Omega fatty acids are effective in reducing itching and inflammation,  they are often recommended for dogs with dry flaky skin and dull coats. Other sources of omega fatty acids are from deep sea fish oils. Brands to look for are Derm Caps, 3V Caps, and  OmegaDerm. Get correct dosing info from your vet.

You should also consider using a Vitamin E supplement. Vitamin E  promotes healthy skin and coat. It inhibits leukotrienes, which is a biochemical in the body that can cause inflammation. Talk to your vet about the correct therapeutic dose.

You'd have to give your dog the above mentioned supplements daily for at least a month before results may be seen.

Some dogs doesn't have allergies or fleas or a more serious skin condition, but are so bored, stressed, or lonely that he maims herself with constant licking or scratching, she may need more exercise, playtime, and attention. This can be the easiest or the hardest treatment to implement because there's no pill or ointment for long-term success; the requirements are time, consistency, and perhaps an investment in training books, an obedience school, a dog sitter, or an animal behaviorist.

Canine autoimmune diseases can cause skin and coat problems. If nothing seems to clear up your dog's condition, having a thyroid test run isn't a bad idea.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,
Patti