Jack Russell Terrier change in behavior

Question
Lily's personality has changed over the past 4-6 weeks in that she is walks constantly, most times in circles, and hassles. She jumps and looks behind her like something is biting her tail, chews on her legs and feet and hides in dark corners (closets, basement, etc.). We bathe her with oatmeal or cortisone shampoo regularly thinking perhaps it is a skin disorder. The vet said to try benedryl but that doesn't work, either. She doesn't have fleas so perhaps it is "hot spots"? Her nervousness seems worse when her belly is pink and warm. Other than that she is very healthy. But she is clearly distressed and miserable. Any ideas?

Answer
Hi Barb,
It sounds like allergies - which unfortunately Jack Russells are prone to and can start to show symptoms at anytime during their lives. The first thing to do is to try to find what she is allergic to. MUCH easier said than done.  Start with her food and then move on to environmental possibilities. You have to take each suspected source and remove it from Lily's diet and/or surroundings. She could be allergic to wheat, corn, grass, wool, a new laundry detergent,
SO MANY things it could be, and it takes patience and lots of investigative work.  You can however, take her for allergy testing to immediately find out what is causing her to itch, but it can get pretty expensive. Whatever it is, allergies can be controllable, but finding the culprit is the hard part. Removing the source of the allergy will show instant results in her reactions.  Best of luck!