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My dog's tail is red and sore from licking. Is it a hot spot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 3 years and 2 months old | 15 lbs

My dog is Licking a lot close to the tail, skin is red, looks sore, already loose hair, it seems he got a lot of itchy, I take him to the vet yesterday, shave and clean the area, put an allergy shot and performed anal sacs, today I put a recovery collar and a Tritop ointment the dr gave me, but still looks very anxious and desesperate Thanks

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily Fukuzato, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 4th, 2017

Hi, I am sorry to hear about Marley. Based on your description and the pictures you took, it appears that Marley may have a "hot spot". This is a moist dermatitis that causes discomfort, inflammation, and a secondary infection. When you say that he "received an allergy shot", I presume this is a steroid injection. If that is the case, the steroid injection should help to reduce his discomfort within less than 24hrs after the shot. Generally, I always treat a hot spots with a prescription of oral antibiotics, rather then topical. I allow the affected area to "dry out", as this is considered a "moist dermatitis" and we want it to no longer be "moist". Steroids are key to helping him feel more comfortable. Make sure to keep the ecollar on at all times to prevent him from chewing or licking at that sore area. I would recommend to contact your vet and ask if a prescription of oral antibiotics is warranted in Marley's case. They are the ones who can get this medication for you if it will help him and is indicated in his case. Best of luck to you and Marley.

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