05/21/2026
The black flies are out and the question, “what are these red spots/scabs on my dog’s belly?” are rolling in!🪰☀️🐾
Spring and early Summer in our region, while beautiful and long awaited, bring out some tiny pests that bite our pets in sensitive areas with sparse to no fur coverage — typically the underbelly, thighs and back of the ears. While these black fly bites are jarring to find on your beloved pet, they’re typically more of an irritation than cause for serious concern.
Signs of Black Fly Bites can include:
🪰 Small red dots, bumps or spots (sometimes presenting with a dark red outline),
🪰 Scabbing on the belly or areas with sparse to no fur coverage,
🪰 Sensitive to the touch,
🪰 Itching or Irritation.
Typically the bites will heal within a few days, but if your dog is noticeably uncomfortable itching themselves constantly, develops any signs of swelling, or if the spots get much worse, please consider contacting your veterinary team to book and appointment and discuss some treatment options.
Tips for Reducing Black Fly Bites:
💡Limit outdoor time, especially wooded/damp areas during peak black fly activity (dawn/dusk)
💡Limit frequency of laying and rolling in grassy areas,
💡Ask your veterinary team about safe pest prevention options (we’re here to help!)
Please contact our friendly and knowledgable team with any questions or concerns! We hope this information and the tips help our MAH patients enjoy the beautiful weather, itch free!🪰👊🐾
☎️: 613-253-2602
📧: [email protected]
📱: .animal.hospital
🛒: myvetstore.ca/mcneelyanimalhospital
⏰: 8:00am - 6:00pm, Monday - Friday
(Closed for Lunch from 12:15pm - 12:
