If you’ve seen red, angry circles on your dog’s belly, you might feel like you need to take them to the vet right away— and that’s totally normal.

But before you freak out, it turns out that these bites might not be as serious as they look.

The Morinville Veterinary Clinic in Alberta, Canada, recently posted some comforting information on their Facebook page, talking about a worry that many pet owners have.

It seems that those red spots on your dog’s stomach could just be from fly bites.

Posted by Troy Macdiarmid on Monday, May 25, 2020

“We are receiving an increasing number of phone calls regarding red bites on your dog’s belly,” the clinic shared and continued:

“These bites come from a type of fly, and dogs usually get them when they lie in the grass. They may look bad, but they typically don’t bother the dogs. They heal quickly by themselves and don’t need any treatment. These flies are usually present for a few weeks each spring before they disappear. We hope this helps ease any concerns you might have had about your own dog!”

This time, it was simply a warning or heads-up – a reminder not to panic and spend unnecessary money on vet bills or resources.

The post quickly gained popularity, with pet owners all over Facebook sharing their own stories of finding similar bites on their dogs. Many felt relieved, knowing they didn’t have to rush to the vet and face a hefty bill.

“Thanks for the info. I was just about to head to the vet and spend a good $200 that I really can’t afford,” one user wrote.

So, what really causes these ugly bite marks? The source seems to be black flies, which are common throughout North America, especially in the northern areas.

Posted by Sherry Hurst-Weavers on Friday, May 24, 2019

“These seem to be bites from black flies, which are found all over North America, especially in the northern areas,” said Michael San Filippo, a representative for the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

“Bites from these flies on dogs are usually safe, but we advise pet owners not to ignore or underestimate these types of bites, as there could be other reasons that might cause similar marks that pose a greater risk to our pets.”

Even though black fly bites are mostly not dangerous, it’s crucial to pay attention to any changes in your pet’s skin or behavior.

The clinic and experts caution that similar bite marks might come from other insects or even allergic reactions. If you’re worried or see anything unusual, it’s always smart to check with your vet.

Posted by Kenzie Estelle May Thacker on Thursday, May 28, 2020

“If you see any strange bites, injuries, or behaviors, you need to talk to your vet,” San Filippo suggested. “There are many things to think about, like your pet’s age, medical background, and health condition, along with the specific health risks for your pets in your area.”

The key takeaway? While fly bites can look alarming, they’re typically harmless and clear up on their own. But as always, trust your instincts and reach out to a professional if you’re ever unsure!