WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG IS STUNG OR BITTEN BY AN INSECT
Stings and bites usually occur as a mishap during your dog's sniffing explorations. Puppies are particularly susceptible. Signs of a sting or bite include intense pain at the site of penetration. The area will usually become swollen, red and hot to the touch. With spider bites or multiple stings there may also be shivering, twitching and vomiting.
A bite near the mouth or neck could result in swelling that could cut off the dog's air passages and should be considered a priority emergency situation. Urgent veterinary treatment is needed.
If the injury is in another area of the dog's body, pull the stinger out with a tweezers (if it is still visible) and apply a cotton ball soaked in vinegar followed by a plaster made with baking soda and water. Spider bites may ulcerate and resist healing for several weeks.
If your dog is bitten by a black widow or brown recluse spider, apply ice packs to the bitten area and take the dog to your veterinarian immediately.
