Horsefly Bite on Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Horse fly bites on dogs can be painful and annoying for your furry friend. These flies are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide that dogs emit, and they can transmit diseases through their bites. In this article, we’ll cover the symptoms of horse fly bites on dogs, how to treat them, and how to prevent them.

Symptoms of Horse Fly Bites on Dogs

Horse fly bites on dogs can be easy to spot, as they often leave large, red welts on the skin. These bites can be very itchy and may cause your dog to scratch or lick at the affected area. In severe cases, horsefly bites can cause an allergic reaction, leading to swelling, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylaxis.

Other symptoms of horsefly bites on dogs include:

• Swelling of the face, neck, or ears
• Hives
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog after a fly bite, it’s important to seek medical attention from a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Treatment of Horse Fly Bites on Dogs

The first step in treating horse fly bites on dogs is to clean the bite wound. Use a mild soap and warm water to gently clean the area, and then pat it dry. Next, apply a cold compress to the bite to reduce swelling and numb the area.

To alleviate the itching and discomfort caused by the bite, you can give your dog over-the-counter antihistamines or apply a hydrocortisone cream to the bite site. If your dog is experiencing severe symptoms, your veterinarian may prescribe a stronger medication.

Prevention of Horse Fly Bites on Dogs

There are several steps you can take to prevent horsefly bites on your dog:

• Keep your dog inside during peak fly hours (usually around noon)
• Use fly repellents specifically formulated for dogs
• Use fly nets or other protective gear when taking your dog outside
• Keep your yard clean and free of standing water, where horse flies breed
• Keep your dog well-groomed, as flies are more likely to bite matted or dirty fur

There are several types of fly repellents that you can use to protect your dog from horse fly bites. Some of the most effective include:

1. Citronella: Citronella is a natural insect repellent that is safe for dogs. It is often used in candles, sprays, and other products to repel flies.
2. Lemon eucalyptus: Lemon eucalyptus is another natural insect repellent that is safe for dogs. It is often used in sprays and other products to repel flies.
3. DEET: DEET is a synthetic insect repellent that is effective at repelling flies and other insects.

Types of Horse Flies

There are several different types of horse flies that can bite dogs, including:

• Tabanidae: These are the most common type of horsefly and are often referred to as “greenheads.” They are typically found near water sources and are known for their painful bites.
• Haematopota: These horse flies are smaller than Tabanidae and have dark-colored bodies. They are often found in wooded areas and are known for their ability to transmit diseases through their bites.
• Chrysops: These horse flies are smaller than Tabanidae and have yellow-colored bodies. They are often found in wooded areas and are known for their ability to transmit diseases through their bites.
• Hybomitra: These horse flies are larger than Tabanidae and have brown or black-colored bodies. They are often found in grassy areas and are known for their ability to transmit diseases through their bites.

Horse flies are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide that dogs emit, which is why they are more likely to bite dogs than humans. They are also attracted to the movement of animals, which is why they are more likely to bite active dogs.

Diseases Transmitted by Horse Flies

Horse flies can transmit a variety of diseases through their bites, including:

• Tularemia: This bacterial disease is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. It can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, it can lead to death.
• Equine Infectious Anemia: This viral disease is caused by the virus Equine infectious anemia virus. It can cause symptoms such as fever, weight loss, and anemia. In severe cases, it can lead to death.
• West Nile Virus: This viral disease is caused by the West Nile virus. It can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle weakness. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis or encephalitis.
• Anthrax: This bacterial disease is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and nausea. In severe cases, it can lead to death.

It’s important to note that horseflies are not the only insects that can transmit these diseases. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects can also transmit these diseases.

Conclusion

Horse fly bites on dogs can be painful and irritating, but they can be treated and prevented. If you suspect that your dog has been bitten by a horsefly, clean the bite wound and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. You can also give your dog over-the-counter antihistamines or apply a hydrocortisone cream to the bite site.

To prevent horse fly bites, keep your dog inside during peak fly hours, use fly repellents, and keep your yard clean and free of standing water. By following these tips, you can help keep your furry friend comfortable and healthy.