If you’ve noticed angry red circles on your dog’s stomach, your first instinct might be to rush to the vet. But before you panic, there’s good news—those marks are likely just harmless fly bites.
The Morinville Veterinary Clinic in Alberta, Canada, recently reassured pet owners after receiving a flood of calls about these mysterious red spots. According to their Facebook post, the marks are caused by black flies, which are common in North America, especially in northern regions during spring. Dogs typically pick up these bites while lying in the grass.
The good news? These bites may look alarming, but they usually don’t bother dogs and heal on their own without treatment. The flies only stick around for a few weeks before disappearing.
Still, veterinarians caution that while most cases are harmless, pet owners should stay vigilant. If the bites seem to cause discomfort, spread rapidly, or if your dog starts scratching excessively, a vet visit is wise. Other pests or allergies could also cause similar marks, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
For now, though, many relieved dog owners are breathing easier—and saving on unnecessary vet bills.
