What to Do if Your Dog Gets Stung by a Bee

A dog running around and nipping at flies is always entertaining to watch! It’s all fun and games until it’s not a fly, but a bee. During the warm weather while bees are out and about, it’s important to know what to do if your dog gets stung. A bee sting can potentially cause a significant reaction, which will require knowledge and quick thinking on your part. Read on so you can be prepared for any future bee stings!

Symptoms and Signs of a Bee Sting

A bee sting releases toxins into the body that can cause swelling and pain. Just like people, dogs will differ in their reactions to a sting. Some dogs may experience minor swelling and discomfort while others might have a strong reaction–perhaps even an allergic reaction.

Here are possible symptoms your dog might have:

• Swelling at the sting site (it might also feel firm)

• Whining

• Limping

• Biting/nibbling at the sting site

• Itchy skin

If your dog swallowed the bee they might experience:

• Coughing or gagging

• Head shaking

• Repeated lip-licking 

• Drooling

• Rapid breathing or wheezing

• Vomiting or diarrhea 

Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• Difficulty breathing

• A large amount of swelling that goes beyond the sting site

• Hives around the face or anywhere on the body

• Weakness

• Collapsing

What to Do After a Bee Sting

A bee sting can be painful and scary for a dog–it’s important as their owner to know what to do if it does happen! Follow these steps:

1. Remain calm!

2. Carefully remove the stinger (if it’s still attached) with tweezers, a credit card or anything else that’s stiff. Do not squeeze the stinger out as this could release more of the poison into your dog’s body.

3. Apply a paste of baking soda and water to the sting site.

4. Use an ice pack to help soothe the sting and reduce swelling.

5. Watch your dog for signs of an allergic reaction. According to American Kennel Club, an allergic reaction usually happens within 20 minutes, but in rare situations is delayed for hours. 

6. Ask your vet about giving your dog a dose of oral antihistamine.

In most cases, the sting will cause some pain and irritation but likely won’t need any vet treatment. Above all, the most important thing you can do if your dog gets stung by a bee is watch for signs of an allergic reaction. Keep a close eye on them throughout the day! 

What to Do for a Mouth, Head or Nose Sting

The biggest concern for a mouth, head or nose sting is making sure that swelling doesn’t interfere with their breathing. In this case, you must be extra attentive to your dog’s symptoms. See a vet immediately if the site starts to swell excessively after a few minutes. Wheezing, difficulty breathing, coughing or drooling are also symptoms that might require vet care.

Anaphylactic Bee Reactions in Dogs

An anaphylactic reaction in your dog is severe and life threatening. Fortunately, this is rare for dogs. If your dog does go into anaphylactic shock, the extreme amounts of histamines in their body lead to decreased blood pressure, muscle contraction, and excessive swelling. Consider this an emergency and contact your closest emergency vet office.

Unfortunately, it’s impossible to know if a bee sting will result in a severe, allergic reaction unless it has happened previously. If your dog does get stung, stay calm and watch closely for signs and symptoms. Trust your intuition and take your dog to the vet immediately if you see any worrying symptoms. Remember, you know your dog best!