Can Flies Kill Dogs?
Flies can cause many problems for your dog, but they are not necessarily fatal. There are some ways to prevent the insects from infesting your home. For example, you can pick up dog bones, empty your trash and recycling bins, and make sure your dog’s water bowl is clean. You can also use non-toxic insecticides, such as pyrethrin, which is effective against various life stages of flies.
The best way to keep flies from attacking your dog is to keep them from coming into contact with open wounds. Fly stings can cause swelling and irritation, and if your dog is allergic, the sting can make it worse. While flies are not dangerous to dogs, they can make it uncomfortable for your dog.
Some types of botflies may be dangerous for dogs, so you should take precautions when outdoors. If you see a botfly on your dog, you should take it to the veterinarian. A vet can diagnose the problem and remove the fly if needed. However, it is recommended not to attempt to remove the bug yourself because you could cause more harm than good.
One common way to prevent a fly infestation is to treat the wounds immediately. Flies can lay eggs in infected wounds. These wounds can be large or small and can be caused by excessive scratching. Maggots range from 1/4 to one-inch long. When they hatch, they feed on dead skin and release an enzyme that digests healthy skin. If the wounds are not treated, the flies may infect the dog.