A wasp sting usually causes only minor pain to the dog in combination with slight irritation in the skin. However, the sting in the sensitive mouth can be dangerous, while it is much more harmless in the paw. In some cases, the animal has an allergic reaction, especially if the wasp stings several times. In this case, the dog should definitely be taken to the veterinarian.
Wasp sting in dogs
Dogs are naturally very curious and like to chase after anything that moves. This natural hunting instinct does not stop at the insects, but some of them can defend themselves. These include the wasps, which quickly feel provoked and then attack the attacker as a defence. It can also happen that the dog steps on a wasp that is crawling on the ground. In this case, it also stabs immediately to defend itself. Unlike bees, wasp stingers don't have barbs, so they don't usually get stuck in the skin.
- Wasp stings can be quite painful
- Through the sting, the insect injects small amounts of venom into the skin
- Sensitive areas of the body, such as the mouth and neck, are more affected
- The paws also suffer
- A manageable wound forms
- Long-lasting pain is mainly caused by the poison
- Wasps can even sting multiple times
- Allergic reactions can occur in the animal
- In extreme cases, be sure to visit the veterinarian
Symptoms & Reactions
A single wasp sting usually doesn't cause any serious symptoms. A harmless sting will only bother the dog for a short time, it usually heals on its own. However, if there has been a large number of stings, caution is advised. The same is true if the pet is allergic to the wasp venom. If the sting can still be seen in the wound, it must be removed promptly to prevent further inflammation. However, no tweezers should be used when pulling it out, as this will force the poison out of the sting deeper into the wound.
- Observe the dog for a while after the bite
- Signs of wasp stings are general weakness
- Difficulty breathing often occurs
- With allergies, there is a large swelling around the affected area
- Pay particular attention to swelling of the head, mouth, neck and throat
- Swelling should not last more than a few days
- Remove stinger from wound with fingernail
- Alternatively, use a corner of thin cardboard
- If you have a severe reaction to the sting, go straight to the vet
relief
Most dogs are more frightened by the wasp sting than they are in great pain afterwards. However, in some cases there are increased reactions, especially if dirt has gotten into the wound and it becomes inflamed as a result. Wasps are particularly active during the warm months and will often be found at ground level, especially if the nest is below ground level. Since a wasp sting often happens on a walk, this wound cannot always be cleaned immediately. In order to relieve further pain, natural home remedies are particularly useful when you get home.
- Mixture of water and baking soda reduces pain
- Ice cubes also provide relief
- Wrap this in a tea towel and only then place it on the wound
- Running water also provides cooling
- Bathe the dog in a nearby stream or river
- This reduces swelling and curbs pain
- Poison consists of protein and is rendered ineffective by heat
- Only apply heat to the paw, not the mouth
- Do not work too hot to avoid burns
- Test in the crook of your arm first
Stitch in the mouth
If the wasp sting is in the area of the mouth, it can be harmful to the affected dog dangerous will. Larger swellings can lead to life-threatening shortness of breath in the animal. Allergic reactions and their symptoms usually appear shortly after the wasp sting and can vary greatly in form. Some of the shock symptoms even result in the dogs being unable to walk. In extreme cases, they fall over completely. As a rule, an allergy to wasps persists throughout the dog's life. In this case, there is a need for quicker action if the stitches are repeated. Veterinarians will prescribe emergency medication, which must be carried at all times.
- Serious symptoms appear after seconds to minutes
- Persistent shaking and excessive panting are serious indicators
- Watch out for swollen airways
- Vomiting and diarrhea indicate allergic reactions
- It can lead to circulatory and respiratory problems
- In case of serious problems, consult a veterinarian immediately
- Drugs with cortisone provide quick relief
Stitch in the paw
Compared to a wasp sting in the mouth, the sting in the paw is far less dangerous. However, this can change quickly ignite, since the paw comes into contact with a lot of dirt. In combination with the poison from the wasp sting, the sting often leads to larger swellings, so that the affected dogs can no longer step properly with their paws.
- Gently squeeze the poison out of the puncture site
- Disinfect the paw immediately after the bite
- Ribwort plantain helps as a disinfectant on walks
- Chew the leaves of the medicinal herb with a lot of spit
- Then put the pap on the wound
- Reduce swelling with cold applications
Prevent
To ensure that the dog does not get a wasp sting in the first place, certain factors should be considered. Especially in the warm summer months, insects romp about in certain places, which also magically attract pets. However, it is often possible to prevent the animal from being bitten. Targeted training is also helpful so that the dogs do not want to hunt for insects or play with them.
- Pay attention to increased numbers of wasps
- Do not leave dogs outside unattended
- Be careful when feeding, both indoors and in the garden
- Wasps like to look for food bowls
- Be careful with fallen fruit under trees, remove it immediately