What causes hot spots on my dog?
"Hot spots" are a self-induced moist dermatitis from trauma when your dog bites and scratches itself in an attempt to alleviate pain or itching. Most cases are from an allergic reaction to flea saliva injected during a bite. Dog breeds particularly susceptible are those with a dense undercoat such as Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Collies, Akitas, Chows, and German Shepherds. The problem is much more common in hot, humid weather and may be related to poor ventilation of the hair coat.

If your pet is suffering from hot spots we would recommend that you visit the veterinarian that you normally go to for regular care or that you establish an ongoing relationship with a veterinarian in your area.

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1. What animals do you currently have available for adoption?
2. Are you a No-Kill Shelter, and what does this mean?
3. How old do you have to be to volunteer at the Pet Adoption Center?
4. Can you pay for my vaccines and medical expenses for my sick/injured pet?
5. What do I do if I've lost my pet?
6. How does a dog get heartworms and how do I know if they have it?
7. What causes hot spots on my dog?
8. Does spaying / neutering make a pet fat and lazy?
9. What should I do about a barking dog problem in my community?
10. What should I do if my neighbor's dog runs at-large?
11. What should I do if there is a dangerous or threatening dog in my neighborhood?
12. I have discovered a stray or lost pet, what should I do?
13. My pet is missing. Can you take my information and call me if it comes in?
14. Is chocolate poisonous to dogs and cats?
15. My pet has fleas, how do I get rid of them?
16. How do I stop my cat from scratching the furniture?
17. What kind of food should I feed my dog / cat?
18. If I become pregnant, do I have to get rid of my cat?
19. How do I introduce a new cat to my household that already has a cat?
20. I have a wild animal in my yard or home. What can I do?
21. There is a dead animal on the street or in my yard. What do I do?
22. I have discovered an injured hawk, owl, eagle, or other bird of prey. What should I do?