05/14/2025
Tis the season of black fly 🪰 bites!!!
🪰 We know these scary looking red marks can be quite alarming looking but they infact are pretty harmless. While a black fly bite can be painful and cause some discomfort most pets do not require any treatment. The bites themselves can look like a bullseye, target or just a red bruise like circle. If your pet is on flea and ticks meds (oral, topical or a collar) it likely will not stop black flies from biting your pet, you may need to find an approved spray containing pyrethrins to help stop your pet from being bit. Before using ANY spray please contact your veterinarian to make sure it is safe to use!!! NEVER apply Deet or any product containing Deet to your pet!!!!!!! Keep in mind most of these sprays need to be applied frequently to help stop the fly bites and even with doing that it's not 100% protection. Black flies typically bite around the ears and belly of most dogs, you could use protective clothing to help stop your pet from being bit. Black flies swarm just after sunrise and before sunset so try to avoid extended periods outside at those specific times. Black flies typically lay eggs near a water source so you may also want to avoid water sources at these times as well. While it's uncommon for a dog to have issues with black fly bites there is always a chance they could be allergic, if you notice any swelling, hives, extreme itching or oozing contact your veterinarian right away. And no its not ringworm!!!!
