This summer, there is a buzz in the air, but it comes with wings and a sting. While bright skies and green grass are a joy for humans, they can be dangerous for pets whose curiosity can lead to a painful sting. The good news is that there is a simple trick every owner can use to help straight away.
If, while your pet has rooting through the grass or swatting at a buzzing bush, they are stung and you can see the sting still in place, experts say a safer way to remove it is to gently scrape it out using the edge of a bank card.
It takes seconds but can help stop more venom being released and may make the whole experience a lot less uncomfortable for your pet.
While most stings are mild and just lead to a bit of swelling or a startled yelp, things can occasionally take a more serious turn.
Which is exactly what happened to Margot, a curious Dachshund pup whose curiosity knows no end. At just five months old, she spotted a wasp on the grass and picked it up, proudly carrying it into her owner’s office.
Unfortunately, the wasp was still very much alive and within minutes of dropping it, Margot began to paw at her mouth and her gums turned pale. She also appeared to be disoriented, so her owner immediately called Handforth Vets for Pets and headed straight there. Thankfully, with quick treatment, she was back on her paws not long after.
“It was extremely worrying how fast everything changed,” said her owner, Vicky.
“One minute she was her usual self and the next she was very distressed. I had no idea she had even picked up a wasp and I never thought a sting could do that.”
Dr Samantha Butler Davies, MRCVS, Veterinary Director at Vets for Pets and Pets at Home, says Margot’s story is a reminder that even everyday moments can catch owners off guard.
“During the summer months, we see lots of pets with bee and wasp stings. In many cases, it is just a painful surprise, but occasionally they can have a much more serious reaction.
“Stings around the face or mouth can be particularly uncomfortable and, in some cases, swelling can cause more serious issues. Smaller pets like curious cats or those stung multiple times may also be at greater risk of severe symptoms.”
She adds that staying calm and acting quickly can make a big difference.
“If you think your pet has been stung, check the area and, if safe to do so, remove any stinger by scraping it away with a card. A cold compress can help soothe soreness but always keep an eye on your pet and contact your vet if you are worried at all.”
Signs your pet may have been stung include:
- Yelping
- Pawing at their face
- Chewing or licking an unusual area
- Swelling at the site of the sting
What to do if your pet has been stung:
- Gently scrape away any visible stinger using the edge of a card
- Apply a cold compress to help reduce swelling
- Keep your pet calm and monitor them closely
- Call your vet if the sting is on the face, mouth, head or neck, if swelling worsens, or if your pet seems unwell
And it is not just dogs who need watching. Cats are just as curious and can also be tempted to investigate buzzing insects, so owners should keep an eye out for any furry friend who may have been stung.