You should seek the advice of your veterinarian if your pet is ill as only he or she can correctly advise on the diagnosis and recommend the treatment that is most appropriate for your pet.

Moist dermatitis (also called "hot spots") is unsightly and is caused by self-trauma through rubbing, biting, licking or scratching at an area of skin 

"Hot spots" are caused by self-trauma by the animal, by licking, biting, scratching or rubbing the skin. This results in :

• A red raw, wet area of exposed skin
• Hair loss over the sore

Typical "Hot spot" near the tailbase  in a German Shepherd Dog with impacted anal sacs (scent glands)

Hot spots occur more frequently during the summer - especially during hot, humid spells of weather. There is no single cause but the following may trigger the problem :

• Allergies :
  • Atopy
  • Contact dermatitis
  • Parasitic (eg Flea) allergy
• Accidental scratches
• Clipper rash
• Foreign material in the coat
• Wetting of the coat followed by inadequate drying (eg swimming)
• Internal discomfort - eg associated with anal sac impaction

Overweight animals are particularly prone to develop "hot spots"

Treatment involves :

• Treat any underlying cause (eg empty impacted anal sacs)
• Weight reduction if the animal is overweight
• Clip away adjacent hairs
• Wash area with antiseptic solution - eg chlorhexidene
• Corticosteroid cream - 2-3 times daily
• Corticosteroid tablets or injection - severe cases only
• Antibiotics if secondary infection is a problem
• Protect the area from further self-trauma by the animal - use an Elizabethan collar

  These sores should not be covered because they heal well if left exposed to the atmosphere.

Updated October 2013