Do You Know What to do if Your Dog is Stung by a Wasp?

Savannah and I were sitting at our patio table a couple days ago, playing an intense game of the board game Sorry when our dog Gypsy got stung by a wasp. I would have had no idea but Savannah noticed it out of the corner of her eye and suddenly Gypsy ran inside the house.

Our dog was less than impressed with that sting but she didn't even make a noise. Fortunately, Savannah worked as a Veterinarian Technician so she knew exactly what to do and Gypsy was fine in less than 2 minutes. It's actually really simple but so important to take action as quickly as possible.

First, keep a very close eye on if your dog is having an allergic reaction. Signs would be difficulty breathing, swelling of the mouth or throat, and obviously if they were to collapse. According to bluecross.org, if you see any of these signs take your dog to the Veterinarian immediately.

If it seems to be a normal sting and just causing irritation follow these steps.

1. Remain calm, sometimes easier said than done.
2. Pull out or scrap out the sting, then bathe the area in water. Make sure not to squeeze the sting as it could cause more of the poison into your dog.
3. Apply ice to soothe the sting as needed.
4. If the sting is in the mouth or throat (which is common), contact your Veterinarian as it may interfere with breathing.
5. If you have any questions or concerns contact your Veterinarian.

Be careful giving your dog any antihistamines. Some can make dogs very ill or possibly fatal so don't give your dog any antihistamines without your Veterinarians approval.