Did You Know? Dogs Can Be Deathly Allergic To Bee Stings
Some dogs like to chase bugs, which is fine and dandy unless the bug is a bee. If your dog is a fun-loving bee-chaser, it is extremely important that you understand what to do in case your dog ever gets stung.
Dogs, like humans, can be deathly allergic to bee stings. Here's what you need to know.
Symptoms of Bee Stings In Dogs
Your dog will likely yelp when it gets stung. The sting will itch and hurt, which can make your dog want to scratch, lick, or rub the affected area. If these are the only symptoms your dog has, it does not have a life-threatening allergy to bee stings.
The reaction to the sting becomes life-threatening when your dog goes into anaphylactic shock with the following symptoms:
- cannot breathe normally
- heartbeat is rapid
- gums turn white
- drools excessively
- diarrhea
- bladder is uncontrollable
- sudden weakness
- acts depressed
- becomes confused
If you notice any symptoms from this list, you'll need to act quickly because anaphylactic shock can rapidly lead to death.
What to Do If Your Dog Has A Life-Threatening Allergic Reaction
If your dog is experiencing any of the symptoms of anaphylactic shock, take it to the nearest veterinary care clinic as quickly as possible so it can get the medication it needs to save its life, which is usually epinephrine, steroids, and prescription-strength antihistamine.
But first, before you get into the vehicle, give your dog a dose of Benadryl, which can help slow or reverse the anaphylactic shock your dog's body is having. Call your veterinarian to find how the exact dosage of Benadryl for your dog's breed, weight, and health and to inform the office that you are on your way so they will be ready for your dog when you arrive.
You may have learned that it's always important to remove the stinger after a bee has stung you. This holds true when pets are stung as well. However, since it may be difficult to determine exactly where the stinger is and equally as difficult to remove the stinger through the fur, it's a good idea to leave this job for the veterinarian or his or her assistant.
Keep in mind, also, that your dog may try to bite or act irrationally if they experience confusion as part of their symptoms. Because of this, it's a good idea to confine your dog in a crate while you drive your dog to the veterinarian's office.