With the warmer weather here, people and their pets like to spend as much time together enjoying the great outdoors. However, with the hotter weather comes a lot of biting and stinging insects, which dogs often like to chase. Most dogs are curious creatures and love to chase bees and wasps, making stings a common concern during these warmer months. Others enjoy rummaging around in the long grass, further increasing the chances of them getting stung. But what to do if your dog is stung isn’t always particularly obvious!
Stings can trigger various allergic conditions in dogs, similar to other allergens like pollen or food. The result of a sting could be a soft swelling on their face or muzzle but dogs can get stung on their paws too when they step on an insect. If your dog is limping or looking a bit sorry for themselves, check their paws for stingers.
Your pet will feel a little discomfort but an insect sting is not a serious problem for most. Some dogs may have an allergic reaction or if they get stung on more sensitive areas like their mouth or muzzle then it can turn into a bigger problem.
Understanding stings and reactions
Stings can cause a range of reactions in dogs, from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. When a bee stings, it injects venom into the dog’s skin, which can trigger an allergic reaction. The severity of the reaction depends on the individual dog’s sensitivity to the venom. If your dog has been stung, it’s essential to monitor their behaviour and watch for swelling, redness, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your dog is having one, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Symptoms of allergic reactions
If your dog has been stung by a bee, keep a close eye on him and watch out for any signs of swelling, especially if this is around the neck or face. Some dogs may break out in bumps (hives) all over their body. Symptoms like hives and swelling can also be seen in canines suffering from hay fever. Human antihistamines can sometimes be used to alleviate these, but it is essential to seek specific advice from your vet before administering them to your dog.
More severe signs to watch for are severe hives all over the body, difficulty in breathing, sudden diarrhoea or vomiting, drooling, weakness or pale gums.
If your dog suffers any of the above you must get them to the vet immediately.
What to do if your dog is stung
If you can still see a barbed bee sting in your dog’s skin, you can try to carefully remove it by dragging a piece of card across the area to dislodge it. Never try to squeeze a stinger out as this will result in injecting more venom into your pet causing them more pain. You need to scrape the stinger off in one single stroke in a diagonal direction.
Apply ice wrapped in a tea towel to help soothe the area affected and take down some of the swelling. Because stings are acidic you can try the application of a mild alkali such as Bicarbonate of Soda – diluted and applied to the affected area.
Can I give my dog Piriton for a wasp sting?
DO NOT give Piriton unless prescribed by your vet. Piriton is an allergy medication, and understanding the implications of providing dogs with Piriton is crucial. The dosage, or how much Piriton to give, varies based on the dog’s size, weight, and breed. For larger dogs, the dosage of Piriton may be higher, with some able to take up to 2 tablets (it might be safer to start with just a half tablet, but this should always be confirmed by a vet. Some dogs may react to the active ingredient contained in Piriton, which could prove more dangerous to them than the reaction to a sting. Always seek veterinary guidance when considering any allergy medication for your pet.
Generally, a sting should not be ignored and should be closely monitored. If you witness your dog being stung you may wish to take them to the vet anyway as a precautionary measure and most definitely if the dog has been stung in the mouth or around the head and neck.
Understanding Piriton for dogs
Piriton is an antihistamine medication commonly used to treat allergic reactions in humans. However, it can also be used to alleviate symptoms in dogs, including bites from insects, food allergies, and hay fever. The active ingredient in Piriton, chlorphenamine maleate, works by blocking histamine from telling the body to respond to an environmental trigger, thereby reducing the severity of reactions.
It’s essential to note that Piriton is not licensed for use in animals, but it can be prescribed by a vet under the ‘cascade system’. This system allows vets to prescribe human medications for use in animals, provided they have the necessary expertise and follow specific guidelines.
When to use Piriton for your dog
Piriton can be used to treat a range of reactions in dogs, including:
- Insect bites and stings: Piriton can help alleviate pain, swelling, and itching caused by bites and stings.
- Food allergies: Piriton can be used to treat bad reactions to food, including skin rashes, itching, and digestive issues.
- Hay fever: Piriton can help alleviate symptoms of hay fever, including itching, sneezing, and runny eyes.
However, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinary surgeon before giving Piriton to your dog. They will assess your dog’s medical history, current medications, and health concerns to determine the best course of treatment.
Piriton dosage and safety
The dosage of Piriton for dogs depends on their weight. A typical dose is 0.2mg of Piriton per kg of body weight, given every 8-12 hours or up to three times daily. However, it’s essential to consult with a veterinary surgeon to determine the correct dosage for your dog.
Piriton can cause side effects in dogs, including drowsiness, diarrhoea, dry mouth, vomiting, and behaviour changes. If you notice any of these side effects, seek advice from a vet immediately.
It’s also important to note that Piriton can interact with other medications that your dog may be taking. Therefore, it’s crucial to inform your vet about any medications your dog is currently taking before administering Piriton.
In addition, Piriton is not suitable for dogs with certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease. Your vet will assess your dog’s medical history to determine whether Piriton is safe for use. It should be noted that it is available in liquid form, too.
Remember, Piriton is not a substitute for veterinary advice. If your dog is experiencing a reaction, it’s essential to consult with a veterinary surgeon to determine the best course of treatment.
Preventing stings and bites from insects
Preventing bites is crucial in reducing the risk of reactions in dogs. Here are some tips to help:
- Keep your dog indoors during peak insect hours (dawn and dusk)
- Use insect repellents specifically designed for dogs
- Avoid areas with high insect activity, such as near beehives or wasp nests
- Keep your dog’s coat clean and well-groomed to reduce the risk of attracting insects and receiving bee or wasp stings
- Use a flea and tick preventative to reduce the risk
By following these steps, you can help protect your furry friend from discomfort and potential dangers.
When to seek veterinary help
If your dog has been stung by or received a bite from an insect, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention if you notice any of the following:
- Severe swelling or redness around the sting site
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Vomiting, diarrhoea or an upset stomach
- Lethargy or collapse
- Multiple stings or bites
If you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction, seek veterinary attention immediately. Your vet may administer antihistamines, such as Piriton, to help alleviate things. In emergencies, human antihistamines may be administered by a vet to help alleviate severe reactions.
What to do if your dog is stung; Things to keep in mind
A bite or sting from an insect can be a serious threat to your dog’s health, especially if they have a history of reactions. By understanding the risks and taking steps to prevent bites, you can reduce the overall risk. If your dog has been stung or bitten, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention if you notice any signs of a reaction. Your vet can provide guidance on the best course of treatment, including the use of antihistamines like Piriton. For larger dogs, the dosage of Piriton may differ. Remember, always consult with a veterinary surgeon before giving your dog Piriton or any other medication to ensure it is generally safe.
Check out our blog for more dog-related advice and tips!
