When you see red, angry-looking circles on the stomach of your dog, your first reaction may be to take them to the vet- and that is absolutely normal.
However, before you start panicking, it turns out that these bites may not be as threatening as they appear.
The Morinville Veterinary Clinic, which is based in Alberta, Canada, recently posted some good news on their Facebook page, which is of interest to pet owners.
It happens that the red spots on the belly of your dog might be nothing more than the bites of flies.
Troy Macdiarmid posted on Monday, May 25, 2020
The clinic posted: ”We are receiving increasing phone calls about red bites on the stomach of your dog.”
They are a form of fly bite and dogs usually acquire them by lying in the grass. They are ugly, and generally do not bother the dogs. They are self-limiting and do not need any treatment. These flies tend to appear during a couple of weeks in spring and disappear. This we hope will allay any concern you might have had about your own dog!”
This time it was only a warning or heads-up- a reminder not to overreact and accumulate unnecessary vet bills or resources.
The post immediately went viral, and pet owners across Facebook were sharing their stories of discovering similar bites on their dogs. Most of them were relieved because they did not have to hurry to the vet and get a hefty bill.
Thanks. One user wrote, I was about to run out to the vet and drop a good 200 I really can not afford.
What then is it that causes these ugly-looking bite marks? The guilty party appears to be black flies, which are widespread in North America, particularly in the north.
Sherry Hurst-Weavers posted on Friday, May 24, 2019
Michael San Filippo, a spokesperson of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), explained that these seem to be black fly bites, which are prevalent in North America, especially in the northern latitudes.
The bites of these flies on dogs are normally harmless, though we would advise pet owners not to dismiss or underestimate these type of bites since there are other reasons that might lead to such markings that are more of a danger to our pets.
Although black fly bites are not harmful in themselves, you should not ignore any changes in the skin or behavior of your pet.
The clinic and specialists caution that other pests may leave similar bite marks, or even allergic reactions. When you are worried or see something unusual, it is never a bad idea to speak to your vet.
Kenzie Estelle May Thacker posted on Thursday, May 28, 2020
San Filippo recommended that you should call your veterinarian to discuss any unusual bites or injuries or behaviors you notice. Several factors are to be taken into consideration, including the age, medical history, and health conditions of your pet, and the particular health risks to your pets in your area.
The lesson learned? Although fly bites may appear scary, they are usually harmless and resolve themselves. However, as usual, follow your gut and contact a professional when you are in doubt!
