Black Fly

By Deb Haines

If you have noticed some peculiar marks on your pet’s stomach recently, there is no need to immediately panic.These marks usually appear as a red dot, or sometimes a circular red ring. They are not crusty and not usually itchy but can be to certain pets.

These are usually from the “BLACK FLY, also called buffalo gnats.

They usually appear mid-May to mid-June and last three to four weeks, depending on the weather.
Black fly bites typically heal without treatment. The bites are usually seen along the underbelly and groin area where there is very little fur. These lesions will typically resolve on their own in a week or so without problems.

If your dog licks at the bites, as with any skin lesion, keep the area clean using a pet-safe soap and antibacterial cream, and prevent your pet from licking or scratching. In rare cases, the bites could cause a bacterial infection, but it can easily be treated with antibiotics from your pets veterinarian.

Note…If the lesions don’t resolve within five days, or the dog is itchy, off pet is off food or depressed, please call your veterinarian.

As alway here at Pet Vet Corner , we encourage you to establish a client relationship with your local veterinarian.

**The Vet Corner groups encourage members to establish a relationship with their local veterinarian, don’t wait until an emergency.**