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!

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By Heather Cronkhite February 12, 2025
As pet owners, we all want our furry companions to be healthy, happy, and comfortable. While diet, exercise, and regular vet visits are the most common aspects of canine wellness plans, grooming is also an essential, yet often overlooked component. This year, prioritizing your dog’s grooming routine can do more than keep them looking great—it’s a vital part of their overall health and well-being. Why Grooming is More Than Just a Beauty Routine Some dog owners think of grooming as purely cosmetic, but it’s much more than that. Grooming helps maintain your dog’s skin health, coat cleanliness, and even their mental well-being. Regular grooming sessions provide an opportunity to check for health issues, such as lumps, rashes, or unusual bumps, before they escalate into serious problems. Grooming also ensures that parasites like fleas and ticks are identified and addressed promptly. Additionally, the process can be soothing for dogs when done correctly. Many pups find comfort in the gentle brushing, washing, and trimming that come with a thorough grooming session. This not only enhances their physical comfort but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. The Health Benefits of Regular Grooming 1. Skin and Coat Care Regular brushing removes dirt, dead skin cells, and debris from your dog’s coat, allowing their skin to breathe and reducing the risk of matting. Matting can lead to skin infections and discomfort, especially in breeds with long or curly hair. Grooming also helps distribute natural oils, keeping your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. 2. Nail Trimming Overgrown nails aren’t just unsightly; they can cause pain, affect your dog’s posture, and lead to joint problems over time. Trimming your dog’s nails regularly ensures their comfort and prevents potential injuries caused by snagging or splitting. 3. Ear Cleaning Dogs with floppy ears or those prone to ear infections benefit greatly from regular ear cleaning. Grooming professionals can remove excess wax and debris, reducing the risk of infections that can cause discomfort and hearing issues. 4. Parasite Prevention Grooming is an effective way to detect and prevent flea and tick infestations. Early detection during a grooming session can save your dog from the discomfort and health risks associated with parasites. How to Make Grooming a Wellness Habit in 2025 1. Choose Professional Grooming Services As a professional grooming service provider, The Pooch Mobile can tailor our services to meet your dog’s specific needs. We offer mobile grooming services that bring expert care directly to your doorstep. This convenient option ensures your dog receives the best grooming without the stress of traveling to a salon. 2. Create a Grooming Schedule Set up a regular grooming schedule based on your dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Dogs with longer coats may need grooming every 4-6 weeks, while short-haired breeds can go a bit longer. Regularity is key to maintaining the health benefits of grooming, and we can help you create an annual schedule that is most convenient for you. 3. Practice At-Home Maintenance Between professional grooming sessions, maintain your dog’s wellness with at-home care. Brush their coat weekly, clean their ears, and check their nails. These small steps can keep your dog looking and feeling great. 4. Monitor Your Dog’s Comfort Pay attention to your dog’s behavior during grooming. If they seem anxious or uncomfortable, work with a professional to find ways to make the process more enjoyable. Positive reinforcement and patience go a long way in helping your dog associate grooming with positive experiences. A Groomed Dog is a Happy Dog Incorporating regular grooming into your dog’s wellness plan ensures their comfort, happiness, and overall health. With our grooming services, keeping up with your dog’s needs has never been easier. By making grooming a priority in 2025, you’re not just giving your dog a shiny coat and trimmed nails—you’re investing in their long-term well-being. So, as you plan your dog’s wellness routine for the year ahead, remember to include grooming as a cornerstone of their care. Your furry friend will thank you with wagging tails, wet-nosed kisses, and a lifetime of unconditional love. To get started, contact us today !
By Heather Cronkhite January 11, 2025
As pet owners, we all want our furry companions to be healthy, happy, and comfortable. While diet, exercise, and regular vet visits are the most common aspects of canine wellness plans, grooming is also an essential, yet often overlooked component. This year, prioritizing your dog’s grooming routine can do more than keep them looking great—it’s a vital part of their overall health and well-being. Why Grooming is More Than Just a Beauty Routine Some dog owners think of grooming as purely cosmetic, but it’s much more than that. Grooming helps maintain your dog’s skin health, coat cleanliness, and even their mental well-being. Regular grooming sessions provide an opportunity to check for health issues, such as lumps, rashes, or unusual bumps, before they escalate into serious problems. Grooming also ensures that parasites like fleas and ticks are identified and addressed promptly. Additionally, the process can be soothing for dogs when done correctly. Many pups find comfort in the gentle brushing, washing, and trimming that come with a thorough grooming session. This not only enhances their physical comfort but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. The Health Benefits of Regular Grooming 1. Skin and Coat Care Regular brushing removes dirt, dead skin cells, and debris from your dog’s coat, allowing their skin to breathe and reducing the risk of matting. Matting can lead to skin infections and discomfort, especially in breeds with long or curly hair. Grooming also helps distribute natural oils, keeping your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. 2. Nail Trimming Overgrown nails aren’t just unsightly; they can cause pain, affect your dog’s posture, and lead to joint problems over time. Trimming your dog’s nails regularly ensures their comfort and prevents potential injuries caused by snagging or splitting. 3. Ear Cleaning Dogs with floppy ears or those prone to ear infections benefit greatly from regular ear cleaning. Grooming professionals can remove excess wax and debris, reducing the risk of infections that can cause discomfort and hearing issues. 4. Parasite Prevention Grooming is an effective way to detect and prevent flea and tick infestations. Early detection during a grooming session can save your dog from the discomfort and health risks associated with parasites. How to Make Grooming a Wellness Habit in 2025 1. Choose Professional Grooming Services As a professional grooming service provider, The Pooch Mobile can tailor our services to meet your dog’s specific needs. We offer mobile grooming services that bring expert care directly to your doorstep. This convenient option ensures your dog receives the best grooming without the stress of traveling to a salon. 2. Create a Grooming Schedule Set up a regular grooming schedule based on your dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Dogs with longer coats may need grooming every 4-6 weeks, while short-haired breeds can go a bit longer. Regularity is key to maintaining the health benefits of grooming, and we can help you create an annual schedule that is most convenient for you. 3. Practice At-Home Maintenance Between professional grooming sessions, maintain your dog’s wellness with at-home care. Brush their coat weekly, clean their ears, and check their nails. These small steps can keep your dog looking and feeling great. 4. Monitor Your Dog’s Comfort Pay attention to your dog’s behavior during grooming. If they seem anxious or uncomfortable, work with a professional to find ways to make the process more enjoyable. Positive reinforcement and patience go a long way in helping your dog associate grooming with positive experiences. A Groomed Dog is a Happy Dog Incorporating regular grooming into your dog’s wellness plan ensures their comfort, happiness, and overall health. With our grooming services, keeping up with your dog’s needs has never been easier. By making grooming a priority in 2025, you’re not just giving your dog a shiny coat and trimmed nails—you’re investing in their long-term well-being. So, as you plan your dog’s wellness routine for the year ahead, remember to include grooming as a cornerstone of their care. Your furry friend will thank you with wagging tails, wet-nosed kisses, and a lifetime of unconditional love. To get started, contact us today !
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