Insect stings and bites in dogs

Dogs are naturally curious animals and will often find themselves in “funny” situations where they need our help. However, there is also a danger of being overly curious if they get too close to an ant nest, decide it’s a good idea to use a beehive as a ball, or squeeze into a spot with bugs that can sting them.
Insect stings and bites are very common among our curious explorers.

It’s not uncommon for a dog to be bitten or stung by an insect, but the body’s reaction to the bite or sting will vary from dog to dog, depending on both the dog and the insect.

Typically, dogs will experience only mild discomfort at the site of the bite/sting, which should subside within a few hours. However, some bites and stings can be quite dangerous and cause various symptoms. These symptoms can be pronounced if your dog is allergic to the specific insect.

Fleas and ticks don’t sting; they bite. However, sometimes the enzymes in their saliva can have a very irritating effect on your dog’s skin. In such situations, you should first remove the fleas/ticks and then focus on treating the symptoms.

Flea infestations can cause a range of health problems, so regular preventative use of flea treatments such as spot-on solutions or collars is best for your dog. Ticks also have the potential to carry many diseases that can be easily transmitted to your dog.

Spider bites can cause significant discomfort. Most spiders have small fangs and usually cannot penetrate a dog’s skin, but there are a few types of spiders, such as the Black Widow, that inject venom when they bite and cause a very painful reaction immediately. Some spiders have potent enzymes in their saliva that can quickly cause necrosis of the skin and muscle. If you suspect your dog has been bitten by a spider, IMMEDIATELY take it to the vet!

• Swelling of the eyelids at the site of the bite/sting
• Swelling of the ears at the site of the bite/sting
• Swelling of the lips, or in severe allergic reactions, swelling of the entire head (called angioedema)
• If the dog has swallowed the insect and the sting is inside the mouth, the swelling may be so severe that it impairs breathing and swallowing
• Rash, or hives, appearing as small red spots, often very itchy and can result in anaphylactic shock
• Wheezing and other breathing difficulties
• Weakness and disorientation
• Slow or weak pulse
• Loss of consciousness
• Rapid heart rate
• Extremely high body temperature
• Cold extremities
• Body shaking
• Constant vomiting or diarrhea
• Bloodsucking insects (fleas, ticks, mosquitoes) have enzymes in their saliva that cause swelling at the bite site, which becomes inflamed. This will appear as small bumps on the skin
• Spider bites cause larger bumps on the skin due to the venom they inject

If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately take your dog to a veterinarian!

Bites and stings that only mildly irritate the skin and have no other accompanying symptoms can be safely treated at home. However, you should monitor your dog closely for a few days to see if the site of the bite/sting worsens or if new symptoms develop. If you notice the condition getting worse, take your dog to the vet right away. If your dog continuously licks or bites the site of the bite, get an Elizabethan collar to prevent it from causing a wound and infection.

• A paste of baking soda and water applied to the bite site can reduce pain and itching.
• If a bee or wasp has stung your dog, carefully remove the stinger with a tweezer or plastic card. If you try to squeeze it like a pimple, it may push further in. You can apply aloe vera gel to the sting site to reduce pain and irritation. Do not allow your pet to lick the aloe vera gel.
• If there is significant swelling, you can apply cold compresses for a few minutes. Do not leave the compress on too long as cold can cause skin damage.

All these home remedies do not replace a veterinary examination. If your dog finds itself in such a situation, a visit to the vet is essential!

Read more on our blog! We recommend Core Vaccines for Dogs