PDSA advice on bee stings and dogs

A daily walk (or two!) is vital for our dogs, but while they're enjoying their outdoor time any owner knows there are all sorts of ways they can get themselves into mischief! Their curious nature and desire to sniff everything means that they often end up sticking their noses into things, and sometimes that can result in a nasty surprise, such as a bee sting.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: "Insect bites and stings are quite common in dogs during the spring, summer and early autumn. They're most often stung or bitten around their face or paws, as these are the bits of them that go investigating first! In most cases, stings and bites are fairly mild and can be managed at home."

Nina explains some of the symptoms we might notice if a dog has suffered a bite or sting:

• Mild swelling in the affected area
• Licking, biting or pawing the area
• Whining and crying
• Limping or holding up a paw
• Drooling

If you notice any of these then have a look through your pet's fur – if they've been stung by a bee there may be a stinger left behind. Nina advises: "If you see a stinger left in their skin it's important not to try and pull it out with tweezers or your fingers – this could squeeze more venom into your dog causing more pain."

Instead, Nina advises taking the following actions:

• Place the edge of a credit card under the venom sac (yellow-ish blob) sting, and gently scrape out the sting.
• Place a cold, damp cloth on the affected area to sooth the skin and reduce swelling. You could also use an ice pack wrapped in a tea towel if your dog is comfortable with this.
• Anti-histamines can help to reduce swelling, but it's important to speak to your vet first. They can advise on what type of medication might be appropriate, and what dosage is safe for your pet.
• Home remedies such as vinegar for wasp stings, or bicarbonate and water for bee stings, won't do your pet any harm. However there's little evidence that they are effective in relieving symptoms.

If your pet has suffered a bite or sting, it's important to monitor them closely for signs of an allergic reaction. Nina explained: "Allergic reactions are fairly rare, but they can happen. Signs include hives or a severe rash, rapid swelling around the affected area, rapid breathing or difficulty in breathing, vomiting, diarrhoea or collapse. If you notice any of these things then call your vet straight away."

Thankfully, most pets will only experience mild symptoms, and after a few hours will be feeling much better. For more information on keeping pets safe over summer, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/summer-hazards-for-pets

PDSA is the vet charity for pets in need, providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn. Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information.