Your Dog is Stung By a Bee - What to Do

Bees and wasps are insects we all know are out there, but do we pay enough attention when it comes to our dogs?  Only rarely do swarms attack and kill a dog, but it has happened.   Most of us, though, really only have to worry about the occasional garden bees.

Dogs are naturally curious about insects, especially the ones that fly. The problem comes about when a dog is stung. Some dogs try to eat them, so when they get stung, the muzzle can swell up.

You may see your pup pawing his face and drooling. You might hear him whine or yelp. Dogs can get stung anywhere on their bodies, and the most common areas are the face and paws.  Examine your dog for swelling around the sting and hives.

You can remove the stinger by using a credit card to scrape it off the skin. Take your dog to the vet if there is swelling in the throat.  He may be in anaphylactic shock. That is an emergency, so get them to an emergency vet.  Many people treat their dog with Benedryl if the throat isn't closed.

Still, don't be afraid to go out with your dog and have fun. If you know your pawed friend is allergic to bee stings, carry and epipen with you for fast treatment.  Then get your pet to his veterinarian as epinephrine is a short acting drug.