Just like us, dogs can be on the receiving end of sometimes painful insect bites and stings. The reaction is dependent upon the type of insect, location and number of bites, and the immune system of the individual animal. Signs usually occur within about 20 minutes of the bite and can range from local pain up to the life threatening super-allergic reaction call anaphylaxis.

As dogs are literally ‘nosey’ critters many pets are stung round the nose and mouth.

Severe reactions include swelling of the eyelids, ear flaps, lips, and sometimes the entire face. This may cause difficulty in breathing. In an anaphylactic reaction, animals may go into shock with symptoms such as wheezing, weakness, unconsciousness, pale mucous membranes, weak pulse, increased heart rate, fever, low temperature, trembling, vomiting, diarrhoea, wheezing and collapse. This type of reaction is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary treatment.

More often, pain or swelling is local or results in urticaria (sometimes called wheals or hives). Even a mild reaction can progress in severity so make sure if your pet is bitten, you observe him/her for the next 12 – 24 hours.

Remember, in an emergency, get attention immediately!