Grass Gnat Bites
Around May each year we often see dogs with target lesions with a red dot in the middle surrounded by a red ring. These should not be confused with crusting red spots, a common skin Staph infection of dogs. These target spots are a result of biting midges or “no-see-um’s” or simply “grass gnats”. These are tiny insects that can be found outside in the grass, but their small size may allow them to penetrate window and door screens. Typically these lesions are only on the underside where the skin comes in contact with the ground. While the lesions look alarming, they don't cause the dog any discomfort and usually resolve on their own in three to five days. If they do not resolve in a couple of days, if there is crusting, or if you are unsure please see your veterinarian.