Bee Sting in Dog Paw — All You Need To Know
Once the weather starts warming up, it’s great news for your doggy outings. But, it can also mean that your furry friend has a higher chance of a bee sting in dog paw, body, nose, or even their mouth.
Bees are out in full force just doing their thing while your pup is doing theirs. Hence, it’s highly likely they’re going to bump into each other at some point.
For most, a bee sting is a minor inconvenience, yet for others it can quickly become a life-threatening event. This is why you need to be aware of what to look out for and be able to identify a mild reaction from a more severe one.
So, we’ve put together this guide to help you and your dog.
Bee Sting Symptoms In Dogs
There are several general symptoms of a bee sting on your dog. And, the severity will depend on the number of stings and where they were stung. Typically, the first signs you’ll notice include:
- Whining.
- Biting or nibbling the affected area.
- Drooling.
- Swelling.
- Unsettled behavior.
- Excessive scratching.
Bee Sting on Dog’s Paw
This type of sting is extremely common for dogs, especially when out walking in grass and woodlands. Your dog is just busy running around and can easily step on a bee. If your dog has been stung on the paw, it could be tricky to find or remove the sting.
A good indicator is if your dog starts limping or biting at their foot. They may even lift up their paw for you.
Bee Sting In Dogs Mouth
Dogs love to snap at flying insects, and this is how they can get stung on, or even in their mouth.
This type of sting can become serious very quickly as it can cause their face, mouth, or throat to swell and prevent them from breathing. If you think your dog has been stung in their mouth, you must seek veterinary attention.
Bee Sting On Dog’s Nose
Dogs instinctively stick their noses in everywhere, but especially when outside with so many different smells to investigate — this is often how they get stung. You may notice your dog is pawing at their nose, whining, or their nose swelling.
You may be able to remove the sting and provide them with treatment at home — as long as they aren’t allergic to that sting. If they are, you’ll need to get in touch with your vet for further advice.
Can Dogs Be Allergic to Bee Stings?
In the same way as some humans are allergic to bee stings, so can our dogs be. This type of reaction to a sting can often lead to far more serious complications to their health than for those who do not have an allergy.
Anaphylactic shock is one of the most serious symptoms of a bee sting allergy, although this is rare in dogs. It can be brought on if your dog is stung multiple times at once or has been stung several times before.
For more information, check out our guide on Anaphylaxis in Dogs.
Dog Allergic to Bee Sting Symptoms
If your dog does have an allergic reaction to a bee sting, not only will they display the general bee sting signs, but also any of the following:
- Facial or neck swelling — even if not stung in that area.
- Immediately apparent swelling of the sting area.
- Rapid or difficulty breathing.
- Weakness or collapse.
- Extreme drowsiness.
- Pale gums.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
Should your dog show any of the above symptoms after being stung by a bee, don’t wait — contact your vet.
Bee Sting Remedy for Dogs
If your dog has been stung, here’s what you can do:
- If the stinger is still in your dog’s skin — take it out — if you can. Avoid tweezers — when you try to pull it, you could force more poison into your dog. Instead, grab a bank card or something similar and drag the card over the stinger to draw it out.
- Clean the sting with some water.
- Mix up some baking soda and water into a paste and bathe your pup’s sting area.
- If your pup is in a lot of pain, an ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) or a cold wet cloth (for multiple stings) will help reduce the swelling.
- If your dog appears to be in a lot of discomfort, an antihistamine can help alleviate the symptoms. Check with your vet for the appropriate dosage. It will depend on your dog’s weight.
- Offer your dog some fresh water, and keep an eye on them for any signs of an allergic reaction.
When to Call/Visit the Vet
There are occasions when you should contact your vet for urgent advice:
- Your dog has been stung several times.
- They have been stung in the mouth.
- Your dog is having an allergic reaction.
- Swelling isn’t getting better after several days.
- You’re concerned about your dog’s health.
How To Prevent Bee Stings in Dogs
This is a tricky one, as dogs are instinctively nosey and will push their nose in where it’s not wanted. Thankfully, bees aren’t typically aggressive like wasps, but that doesn’t mean they won’t sting if provoked.
There are a few things that you can do to help keep your dog safe and avoid bee stings.
- Avoid areas where there are lots of flowers.
- Get your dog to wear booties while out walking.
- Keep your dog leashed when walking in bee-prevalent areas.
- Try to discourage your dog from chasing or snapping at flying insects.
- You could try a bug spray, especially for dogs.
- Don’t allow your dogs near bee hives.
- Natural repellents such as vinegar or lemons could be used on your dog.
Conclusion
Bee stings can be a nasty shock to your pup but normally are mild and can be quickly treated. However, if your dog has a more severe reaction, a simple sting can rapidly turn into something far more serious.
If you’re concerned about a bee sting in your dog’s paw, or anywhere else, speak to your vet for further advice.
Dogs Allergic to Bee Stings FAQs
How Long Does a Bee Sting Last on a Dog’s Paw?
If your dog isn’t allergic to bee stings, the discomfort should only last for around 12-24 hours. But, if your dog has an allergic reaction to a bee sting, symptoms will last a little longer. Allergic reactions can be seen either straightaway or a few hours after the sting.
Should You Take Your Dog to the Vet for a Bee Sting?
Most of the bee bites on dogs can be treated at home, but there are circumstances where you must take your dog to the vet:
- Multiple stings.
- Bee sting in a dog’s mouth or throat.
- You suspect your dog is allergic to bees.
- Swelling of the sting area doesn’t improve after a day or two.
- You’re worried about your dog — you know them better than anyone.
Can I Leave a Bee Sting Untreated?
No. At the very least, you must remove the stinger, wash the area, and apply either a cold compress or something to the area to reduce the swelling. And, you will need to monitor them closely for an allergic reaction.
Can I Give My Dog Benadryl for a Bee Sting?
Yes, the brand Benadryl is the antihistamine Diphenhydramine, which can be used as bee sting relief for dogs. The suggested dosage is between 0.9 to 1.8 mg per pound of your dog’s weight (or 2 to 4 mg per kilo). However, it’s advisable to check with your vet for accurate dosage levels.
How Will My Vet Treat Bee Stings?
Depending on the severity of your dog’s symptoms, bee sting in dog paw treatment could involve:
- Antihistamines.
- Pain relief.
- Anti-inflammatories.
For dogs allergic to bees, treatment can involve all of the above, plus, IV fluids and adrenalin (epinephrine).
Can Dogs Suffer From Other Allergies?
Yes. Dogs can be allergic to anything, for example:
- Seasonal allergies for dogs, e.g., grass pollen.
- Tree pollen — learn more in our guide on Dog Pollen Allergies.
- Fleas can lead to flea allergy dermatitis — read our guide on Dogs With Flea Allergies.
- Food allergies.
