Dog owners are being urged to watch for potentially dangerous insect bites and stings as their pets spend more time exploring gardens, parks and the countryside.
Bees, wasps, ants, flies, mosquitoes and other insects can all bite or sting dogs, with inquisitive pets particularly vulnerable when sniffing through grass, investigating flowers or trying to snap at flying insects.
Although most incidents cause only mild pain, irritation or swelling, a sting inside the mouth or throat, multiple stings or a severe allergic reaction can become a veterinary emergency.
Canine first aid specialist Rachel Bean RVN, who authored the iPET Network Level 4 Canine First Aid qualification, said: “Dogs are naturally inquisitive and often get stung on the nose or paws.
“A single sting might just cause temporary swelling or pain, but multiple stings, or a sting near the mouth or throat, can be far more serious.
“In some cases, a dog might suffer an allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. This can come on rapidly and be life-threatening without urgent veterinary care.”
Insect bites and stings are commonest during spring, summer and early autumn, according to veterinary charity PDSA.
Dogs are most frequently affected around the face and paws, often because they have tried to catch an insect or accidentally stepped on one.
Signs of a mild reaction may include sudden whining or yelping, swelling, limping, drooling and repeatedly licking, biting or pawing at the affected area.
However, owners should contact a vet immediately if their dog develops rapid or severe swelling, hives, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties, weakness or collapse.
Swelling around the face, neck or throat, a sting inside the mouth or several stings must also be treated urgently.
The Royal Kennel Club warns that a sting inside a dog’s mouth or throat can cause swelling capable of obstructing its airway.
Allergic reactions can develop within ten minutes, but may also be delayed by several hours and, in rare cases, for as long as a day.
Owners should therefore continue monitoring their pet even if it initially appears well.
Rachel said owners who find a bee sting should remove it carefully rather than squeezing it.
She said: “Bees leave their sting behind. Gently scrape it off using a bank card or your fingernail. Don’t use tweezers as you might squeeze more venom in.”
Unlike bees, wasps do not leave their sting behind and can sting a dog repeatedly.
A cool, damp cloth can be held gently against the affected area to relieve discomfort and reduce swelling. An ice pack may also be used if it is wrapped in a towel and the dog is comfortable with it.
Rachel added: “Never give over-the-counter antihistamines or painkillers unless specifically instructed by your vet.”
PDSA similarly advises owners to contact their vet before giving an antihistamine, as the wrong medicine or dose could be dangerous.
Other insect bites usually cause relatively minor skin irritation. Ant bites can leave small red lumps, while bites from flies may appear as red bumps or scabs. Any wound that is worsening, unusually large, painful or showing signs of infection should be assessed by a vet.
Owners can reduce the risk by keeping dogs away from visible nests and hives, discouraging them from chasing insects and quickly clearing away food and sweet drinks that could attract wasps.
A pet first aid kit containing a cold pack and other basic supplies can also be useful on walks, day trips and holidays.
