Hot Spots?

Question
I live in Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada and i have a  black lab that has developed spots on his back and chest....only during the summer though....these spots are itchy for him and develop a yellow crust around the outer edges....most of the spots are round and vary in size....can you help me with a cure....and tell me what it is? He is a farm dog also....if that helps any?

Answer
They are Hot Spots. Some dogs get them consistantly and other never get one.  My female used to get one every time she came into heat.  They get out of control very easily. If you catch them very early, you can treat with a antibiotic ointment.  But if they get bad, it is usually a vet trip and an a shot or 2 to get it under control.  Talk with your vet and see if he will give you a tube of medication to have on hand for when this occurs instead of paying for a trip to the vet everytime. There is nothing you can do to prevent them. It is almost as if there is a virus in their system that causes it.