Over the past few weeks Aussie Dog Care has seen an increasing number of dogs with insect bites so here is some fantastic advice on what to do and how to spot them on dogs. They are increasingly common in any pet!
“Symptoms
Insect bites on dogs can include the following reactions:
- Swelling on the eyelids
- Swelling on ear flaps
- Swelling on the lips and in some cases the entire face. In this case, it is known as angiedema.
- If the dog is bitten on the nose or mouth, it will lead to large swelling and the animal will have difficulty breathing
- Urticaria, also known as “hives” which displays as welts are observed on the skin. These bites are usually itchy and can cause anaphylactic reactions.
- Wheezing
- Weakness
- Unconsciousness
- Weak pulse
- Increased heart rate and fever which may cause the animal to go into shock.
- Other symptoms of insect bites on dogs may lead to cold extremities, trembling, vomiting, diarrhea and collapse.
Blood sucking insects like mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, etc. cause swelling and irritation on the bite site. These insects contain some compounds in their saliva that aggravates this effect on the dog’s skin and may also cause tiny bumps on the skin. Spider bites cause large swollen bumps because the e spider bite contains an enzyme in the injected venom that leads to an allergic reaction on the dog’s skin.
Treatment
Few insect bites on dogs are extremely dangerous, but some can be very irritating and painful to your dog. There are some home remedies for treating insect bites on dogs that are safe and effective. Below are some suggestions:
- In the case of bee or wasp stings, apply aloe vera gel. It helps sooth the pain and burning sensation due to the sting or bite.
- For bumps and sores, you can try gently applying a paste of baking soda and water several times a day till the bumps recede.
- For irritation, try applying milk of magnesia, calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream several times a day to ease the irritation. You can also apply regular oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal on the bite site to help relieve the irritation.
- As previously mentioned, remember to remove the stinger with a magnifying glass using a credit card or similar object. Once the stinger gone, bathe the area with a diluted solution of baking soda mixed with water. Prepare the solution by adding one part baking soda to several parts water. Apply a cold pack for several minutes to help reduce the swelling and pain. Repeat the cold pack several times a day.
- You can mix 1 teaspoon of Epsom salt in 2 cups warm water and boil it. Keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Bathe the dog with this mixture, to treat irritated and itchy paws and skin. To treat hot spots on skin, saturate a cotton ball with witch hazel and apply it to the spot for several days.
Many dogs develop allergic reactions to bites and stings that require immediate veterinary attention. If the bites are on the face, the swelling may obstruct the dog’s vision or breathing. If you find the dog is having trouble breathing or seems disoriented, take him to the vet immediately. You may need to seek veterinary attention if the dog is bitten by a spider, as their venom can cause a more serious reaction than bees or wasps.
It is very important to take care of your dog in case he is bitten by any insect. Even a minor mosquito bite can lead to an infection as the dog tends to keep scratching the itchy area. This can lead to infection by other pathogens which may cause other problems like pus or fever in your dog. Pet care is the owner’s responsibility. To give the best possible care to your dog please make sure you do not take insect bites lightly, as the life of your pet may depend on your alertness.”
Above quoted from http://www.petassure.com/newsletters/021510newsletter/02152010article2.html
The local areas I work/ cover in is Romiley , Stockport , Woodley, Bredbury , Hyde , Gee Cross , Hazel Grove , Godley , Disley , Marple , Marple Bridge , Glossop , Poynton , Higher Poynton , New Mills , Hayfield , Whaley Bridge , Mellor. If you are not situated in one of these areas do not hesitate to contact me as other areas are considered. These do not apply for home boarding.
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