Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 12/30/2005

Question
I just found a hot spot on my 8 yr old Jack Russell Terrier.  She's never had them before.  I did find a flea, so I'll treat her with Revolution tomorrow.  What can I do for the hot spot?  It's on her back in the hip area, so don't know how to stop her from rubbing it on the ground.  

Answer
Hot spots are best treated by rtemoving the hair from over it and washing the skin to remoove the weeping serum.  In addition, hot spots result from an allergy to something, so a cortisone creme or shot will help relieve the itching so the skin can heal.