The stings of bees, wasps, yellow jackets and ants can all cause painful swelling and redness at the site of the sting. Stings usually occur on the area around the nose or the feet. Swelling may extend to the face and neck. If stung a number of times, the dog may go into shock as a result of absorbed toxins. If the dog has been stung in the past and had a reaction, anaphylactic shock may result with subsequent stinging incidents.

Signs of Anaphylactic Shock include:

• Agitation
• Face Scratching
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty Breathing
• Collapse
• Seizures

For Treatment of Anaphylactic Shock, Click Here.

Since black widow and brown recluse spider bites are toxic to animals, signs to look for if your pet gets bit are:

• Initially, sharp pain at the site of the bite.
• Followed later by intense excitability, fever, weakness, and muscle and joint pains.

*Seizures, shock and death can occur, especially with the bite of the black widow spider. Antivenin is available to treat these bites.

Treatment:

1. Identify the insect.
2. If the stinger is found ( a small black sac), remove it by scrapping it our with your fingernail or some flat object such as a credit card. Do not squeeze or use tweezers, as this can inject more venom into your pet. (Note: Only bees leave behind their stingers.)
3. Make a paste of baking soda and apply it directly to the sting.
4. Apply an ice pack to relieve pain and swelling.
5. Apply calamine lotion to relieve itching.
6. Your vet may prescribe and antihistamine such as Benadryl.

1. Is the dog is breathing? If not perform Rescue Breathing.
2. Is there is a pulse present? If not perform CPR.
3. If the dog is unconscious, check to make sure that the airway is open. Clear secretions from the mouth with your fingers and a piece of cloth. Pull the tip of the tongue forward beyond the front teeth to make it easier for the dog to breathe. Keep the dog's head lower that the rest of his body. To do this place a blanket underneath his/her hindquarters.
4. Wrap the dog in a coat or blanket to provide warmth.
5. Transport to a veterinary hospital immediately.

1. Calm the dog and speak soothingly
2. An animal will naturally assume the position in which he/she is most comfortable. Allow that to happen as long as breathing is not hindered.
3. Avoid using a muzzle except for short periods since muzzling can interfere with breathing.