My dog's severe hot spot won't heal. What should I do now?

That looks like a pretty nasty hot spot. Hot spots are caused by chronic moisture against the skin (which is common with a collar or something else wrapped around the neck). The best way to treat a hot spot is to clip the hair from the area so that it can fully dry out. You will need to use buzzing clipper, not a razor or scissors. You can try an OTC pet antimicrobial spray, but often prescription sprays or ointments work a little better since they contain a steroid and real antibiotics. You may also have to get creative in finding ways to prevent Peyton from scratching this area, as that will delay healing and can damage the skin. You can try socks, dog booties, or bandaging the feet to cover the nails. Unfortunately, due to the location, he won't be able to use an e-collar. If the hotspot isn't looking better in 48 hours, I would recommend that you have Peyton checked out by a vet.

The best thing to do for Elmer is to take him to your veterinarian. Here they can shave the hotspot and clean it up. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for a hotspot and sometimes a topical ointment or spray. Until you can bring Elmer to your veterinarian I do recommend an Elizabethan collar to prevent him from licking. Licking a hotspot will make it worse very quickly. I hope Elmer feels better soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Not really, but if you havn't done any treatment for the hot spot other than putting the cone it's not likely to resolve, this will require antibiotics and possibly allergy medications, take him to the vet and get it treated ASAP.

Hi. Poor Lilly. Sounds like you have done the best you can. Lilly may need oral antibiotics at this point to get it to heal. Until m9nday, you could try putting a triple antibiotic ointment on the area until you get it examined.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It could be the start of a hot spot. The mainstay of treatment is to shave the fur away to allow better air flow to help it dry out. Also Hatty would need to stop chewing and licking the area. That requires the use of an Elizabethan collar (cone) or donut. Also we usually prescribe a course of steroids and antibiotics. Since it is getting worse and hot spots are of the the true skin "emergencies" (because they spread quickly and are uncomfortable) I recommend having her seen today before the weekend. I hope this helps and I wish Hatty a speedy recovery!

Yes, it looks like he has a skin infection/hot spot. He needs an oral antibiotic and possibly a corticosteroid to help treat the infection and inflammation. Schedule an appointment with a vet for treatment.

Poor Mickey! Yes you do need to keep him from scratching it. If he can reach it with his mouth, he needs to wear an Elizabethan collar at all times. If it’s in an area he can scratch with his feet, have him wear a little T-shirt or onesie to cover it up. You can wash the area with hand soap once a day and rinse it well. This will help to remove some of the exudate. Lastly, you may call his veterinarian and ask about getting a medication for itching. Usually the antibiotics will kick in within 2 to 3 days and they feel much better. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.