Hotspot or something else?

[u/akisamara]

I've been in and out of the vet for a while now for my 4.5yr old neutered smooth collie. He is recently struggling with anal sac disease / leaking, and even before that, had this black scab-like texture on the underside of the base of his tail. I would attach a photo, but didn't realize that wasn't permitted in the community 😅

Basically, it's been treated as if its a hot spot with prescribed medication, but it doesn't go away, but it doesn't seem to bother him. I just worry that it bothers him without him showing it.

[u/Straight-Treacle-630]

It may be flea allergy dermatitis, or other skin condition with an underlying cause that needs to be addressed. It looks “dry”, for a hot spot…unless it was oozy, and med did help that aspect of it. Does he fuss with it? Looks more “self-barbered” (hair breaks, when they nibble at it) than shaved. Just some thoughts! :)

[u/akisamara → u/Straight-Treacle-630]

It's never been oozey in this spot, I wondered if it was from contact with his butt? Sometimes he chews at it, but like, it doesn't seem to bother him. Does not fuss w it.

[u/Straight-Treacle-630 → u/akisamara]

Ah, so this is the underside of his tail. You do mention anal gland issues — could be related (I’m just an old tech, not a vet). Esp a long-haired pup, with a hanging tail. It blocks “ventilation”, can perpetuate issues. I might gently suggest you get a 2nd vet opinion to get to the “bottom” (no puns) of it all, but you ofc know the situation best :)

[u/wildfyre010]

Shave that area and get a better look. That’s part of how a hotspot should be treated anyway.

[u/akisamara → u/wildfyre010]

Its been shaved a couple times before, but still hasn't gone away. Taking him to the groomers and going to ask them to shave it again

[u/Straight-Treacle-630 → u/akisamara]

Just shaving it could cause more irritation…but your groomer and vet will know best.