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Q: My daughter told me my dog has hot spots. What is that?

Written on: July 9th, 2009 by: in Q & A's

Answer:  According to the ASPCA website, hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are red, moist, hot and irritated lesions that are typically found on a dog’s head, hip or chest area. They grow quickly because dogs tend to lick, chew and scratch the affected areas, further irritating the skin. Hot spots can become quite painful.

Anything that irritates the skin and causes a dog to scratch or lick themselves can start a hot spot, including allergic reactions, flea bites, skin infections, or constant licking and chewing prompted by stress or boredom.

The ASPCA recommends that you visit your vet for an exam as soon as you notice any abnormality in your pet’s skin, or if your pet begins to excessively scratch, lick and/or bite areas on his fur.

For more information please check the ASPCA website.

For further reading check out these titles:

Hound Health Handbook: The Definitive Guide to Keeping Your Dog Happy, Healthy & Active (available to library patrons in Kent County, Sussex County, and through Delaware Tech)

What’s Wrong with my Dog?: A Pet Owner’s Guide to 150 Symptoms and What to Do about Them (available to library patrons in New Castle County)

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