My dog has a persistent rash or hot spot on her belly. What is it?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 20th, 2019

  Bella's lesions could be a few things like bacterial infection or just significant inflammation. Sometimes there is an underlying component like allergies but sometimes it's a singular issue. Skin mites or ringworm might look like this but it's an uncommon presentation.
  At home you can try washing the area once daily with hand soap or a medicated dog shampoo. Rinse it well. This will help to keep the dead skin cells and bacteria removed.
  I hope this at least points you in the right direction. Please post again with any further questions.
  

  

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• Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on November 27th, 2017

  Bella could have a yeast or bacterial infection, a skin parasite, fleas, allergies to the environment or food, or even something more serious like an autoimmune problem (although that is much less likely). If it started when you changed foods, I think it's very reasonable to switch her back to her old food to see if the problem goes away. If not, I would recommend having her skin tested for yeast, bacteria, and parasites. Make sure she's on a good flea preventive (Bravecto and Nexgard are working best for me right now, the oral options generally work a bit better than the topical ones.) If she's itching herself, she probably needs to go back to the vet sooner than later to get some medications. I hope Bella is back to normal soon!

  

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• Answered By Menolly Cote, DVM, CVA

  Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

  Published on June 21st, 2017

  Poor Bella! This looks like a hotspot. Hot spots occur when an animal scratches or chews at an area until damage is done to the skin. They can often progress very quickly and become quite severe if not treated. If the area is continuing to enlarge or if Bella seems uncomfortable I would recommend that you have her seen by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may clip and clean the area and prescribe medications to help it heal. In the meantime I would recommend that you try to prevent Bella from scratching at the area.

  

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• Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on February 29th, 2020

  From the photos it appears as though Bella could have dermatitis with a possible secondary skin infection. If she was bathed recently and water was trapped in between the skin folds, this could have been the culprit. I would recommend starting hydrocortisone spray. You can find Well & Good Hydrocortisone spray at Petco and apply this 2-3 times per day until you can get Bella seen by a veterinarian. I hope this helps!

  

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