Hyperemic circular lesions on ventral abdomen.
A 5-month-old, neutered male, mixed breed dog presented to the clinic for a rash on his groin. The owners reported that he did not appear to be bothered by this rash but it was red with a ring around it.
On physical examination, he was bright and alert. He consistently gets monthly preventions and they did not notice any recent ticks. On his ventral abdomen there were multiple red “bullseye” type lesions. The lesions were hyperemic (red) in color, but were not swollen. He did not appear painful when being examined.
Black fly bites can have an alarming appearance due to their red ring and concern with a possible tick bite and potential Lyme disease. Luckily, the fly bites are relatively benign and do not cause any harm. Dogs are not bothered by these lesions and they will typically resolve on their own in a few days. The lesions tend to be on the belly, or on areas around the face and ears where there is little to no fur present.
The appearance of these skin lesions can also mimic a possible skin infection. However, when there is a skin infection, most pets will be licking, chewing, or itching at their skin. Black fly bite season is typically late April and into May. There is not much that you can do to help prevent the fly bites other than limiting outdoor exposure during the fly bite season.
If lesions appear swollen, inflamed, or are bothering your pet, an appointment should be made as some pets may be more sensitive and require additional treatment. Hyperemic circular lesions on the ventral abdomen.