I have a dog that stays outdoors and flies keep attacking his ears. The tips of his ears are bleeding and getting crusty. What can I do for him?
This is a very common and irritating problem known as fly dermatitis. During fly season, stable flies (Stomoxys calcitrans), black flies (Simuliidae) and some other species attack and bite hairless areas of dogs including the tips of the ears or ear folds in dogs with tipped ears. Typically the flies bite repeatedly, feeding on the blood released through the bite wounds. This often causes bleeding, severe crusting, inflammation, and sometimes infection to occur on the ears. Some dogs are sensitive to the saliva of certain flies and will have an allergic response to it. The degree of itching experienced by affected dogs varies.
If your dog has open sores or bleeding, crusted wounds, you should have your veterinarian examine him and provide treatment for secondary infections and itching. Your veterinarian can also supply you with a fly repellent lotion or ointment that is designed for topical use. Apply the ointment all along the tips of both ears (and on other affected areas, as needed) every day before allowing your dog to go outside.
The other option is to leave your dog indoors during the day when the flies are more bothersome.
Talk to your veterinarian about the best ointment or product for your pet.
10/13/00
