Hippobosca longipennis, the dog fly, is a blood-sucking parasite found mainly on carnivores. Its bites can be painful and irritating, although not all animals appear to be bothered. Heavy parasite burdens can occur on some animals: in one case, 180 specimens were found on a single captive cheetah. Extensive blood loss might be possible. H. longipennis is an intermediate host for Dipetalonema dracunculoides, a filarial parasite of dogs and hyenas. It may also be a vector or transport host for other pathogens.