Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 11/15/2005

Question
I have a 3 yr old rottweiler that is prone to "hot spots."  
Can you tell me what causes hot spots, and if there is
anything I can do to help prevent them.  Sometimes the
hot spots really seem to irritate (they are itchy and
sore at the same time).  Sometimes I can get them to
heal within a few of days and sometimes it takes over
a week before the spot begins to dry up.  When he gets
a hot spot, I usually cut the hair around the "spot" and
then I pour peroxide on it and spread Neosporin on it.
I usually do this once or twice a day until the spot begins
to dry up.   Is this the correct way to treat these, or
should I be doing something else?  

I appreciate any advice you can give me.  
Thank you for your time.

Answer
"Hot Spots" are known as acute moist dermatitis.  It usually results from bacterial infection in a part of the skin affected by allergies.  The skin itches, the dog rubs or scratches, abrading the skin.  The skin weeps out serum which dissolves the hairs and burns the skin, so it spreads rapidly.  Since they are most often allergic, finding out if the dog is allergic to its food or something in the environment will be necessary to prevent them from happening.

As far as treatment, I agree with the clipping and washing, but peroxide actually can burn the skin since it heats up so much when it bubbles in the presence of pus.  Since it is moist, after cleaning it, pat it dry with a towel and then use an antibiotic/steroid powder on it to keep the wound dry. Most of them heal rapidly.

Check with your vet for the appropriate medicines.