Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 6/22/2005

Question
My dog (silky terrier) is biting at her hind leg and has made it red and raw and sore looking.  I have been told that it is hot spots.  I am keeping her hair very short at that spot, is there something topical that I can put on it to help her from biting it so that it will heal.  thank you for your help.

Answer
She will probably lick any ointment that you put on her leg.  Most hot spots are caused by allergies, so a shot of cortisone may help relieve her itching so she will leave the leg alone.  It will get a chance to heal that way.  Ask your vet about that.