Your location: Home > Wiki > Dog Health, Dogs > Dog Bee Stings >

Dog Bee Stings

Veterinarian Reviewed on March 29, 2014 by Dr. Janice Huntingford

Dog Bee Stings

Every dog loves to run around and play outside. There are lots of grass, flowers and other interesting things for them to sniff and explore. But danger lurks amongst the flowers in the form of insects that sting. The most common of these are bees. While most are innocuous, with some irritation and swelling accompanied by redness, others can cause severe problems for your dog. This is especially true if the sting is in the head and neck area or if the bee sting is causing swelling which can block airways.

Your dog is very likely to bark or yelp when the bee stings. They will also attempt to rub the affected area in the grass to relieve the pain. If their nose becomes swollen it is time to take action.

When to Worry

• If you notice difficulty with movement

• Any major inflammation, especially when it moves away from the sting to other parts of the body

Dog Difficulty Breathing

• Weakness or Dog Lethargy

Dog Stress And Anxiety

• Exhibits any difficulty swallowing

• Excessive vocalization

• If your dog “faints” it is possible that the sting is mimicking a seizure.

It is important to observe your dog closely for the next day. This is especially true if your dog has only one bee sting. If your dog was attacked by a swarm of bees, immediately take your dog to the veterinarian. Any swelling in the neck or face needs professional treatment. It should be prompt. If your dog is stung in the evenings or on weekends, you may have to call an emergency clinic for prompt care.

Your vet may administer steroids, adrenalin or antihistamines to your dog. This will help with any Dog Allergies, the allergic reactions and breathing difficulties. If the throat begins swelling, it may be necessary to give some respiratory support. Intravenous fluids may be administered if there was a swarm attack.

At Home Care

Your veterinarian may order some oral medications to comfort your dog and ease the pain and itching. Observe for any delayed reactions. By observing your dog closely, you will notice any specific changes in their condition. It is always possible that there may have been more than one bee sting on their body. Certain areas of the body, such as the neck and throat, may react differently than a bee sting on their back.

There may be some swelling in irritation at the site of the sting. It is possible that you can see the stinger in the skin. If so, try to remove it by scraping with your finger nail or a butter knife. Do not try to pull it out, as this will cause more toxins to enter your dog’s body. The natural defenses of the body will push it out as hair grows.

Natural Remedies for Bee Stings

Many people prefer to soothe the pain with homeopathic or herbal remedies rather than with chemical medication. Some that you can use are Hamamelis virginianum which is a very soothing remedy for the skin. For burning on the skin calendula officinalis will calm and sooth burning. Melissa officinalis will also help with irritated skin and is especially helpful with bee stings and Dog Bug Bites. These remedies are topical and should not be taken internally.

Read also: Dog Pancreatitis
228 people found this article useful. Did you find this article useful? Yes

Our Expert

Dr. Janice Huntingford
Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan

Related Posts