Prevention and Treatment of a Dog's Fly Bites
My-Dog.info > Dog Diseases, Bites, Worms & Ticks
Dr. Jocelyn Wellington, board-certified veterinary
dermatologist has some specific comments on fly dermatitis. She
points out that the most successful treatment is prevention by
applying fly repellent before open wounds from bites develop.
She notes that the effect of flies on the skin is usually
minor, with irritation of the skin from fly bites being the most
common problem. Attacks by stable flies and black flies are
typically incriminated in skin wounds located on the ear tips or
faces of outdoor dogs from late spring until first frost.
Horsefly, deer fly and mosquito bites tend to be less irritating.
The flies actually bite and open the skin creating multiple small
ulcers oozing serum and blood or produce small red bumps
(papules) covered with hemorrhagic (bloody) crusts. Scratching or
rubbing the ear flaps (pinnae) can be quite intense in those dogs
with allergies to fly bites.
Dr. Wellington advises that commercially available fly
repellents, permethrin-containing products recommended for flea
control on the dog, or a thin-coating of petroleum jelly
(Vaseline) applied to the affected skin reduces the potential for
future bites. The products should be applied according to the
manufacturers’ directions or twice daily. More frequent
applications will be necessary if the dog swims. Avoid spraying
the product directly onto the ear to prevent the possibility of
contact with the eye and subsequent irritation. Spray the product
on a soft cloth or make-up pad and wipe the surface of the ear
avoiding direct contact with large open wounds. If open sores are
present, they should be cleaned daily with soap and water.
Coating with a triple antibiotic ointment (Polysporin™)
will reduce the potential for infection and decrease the
attraction of flies to the open wound.
Keep the dog indoors during the day until the lesions heal.
When pinna lesions are extensive or itching is quite intense,
veterinary care is advised.
Reprinted with permission from www.animalhealthcare.ca
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