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Readers Respond: Scorpions Snakes and Insects - has your pet been stung or bitten?

Responses: 2

By Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM, About.com

From the article: Scorpions and Pets
Dogs and cats are naturally curious and sometimes they are hunters. This combination can lead to bites and stings from insects, spiders, scorpions and snakes.

Dogs commonly snap at flying insects, while cats paw at them. If stung, this can lead to swollen paws and lips. Read more about swollen paws (and lips).

Scorpion stings, spider bites and snake bites are all potentially serious.

If you suspect your pet has been bitten or stung, call your veterinarian immediately for specific advice. A photo or specimen of the pest is helpful.

Please share your pet's story and outcome here to increase awareness for other pet lovers. Share your experience

Gradie Taffie (bee sting)

Gradie is a golden retreiver and is very allergic to bee stings. When he gets bitten his face swells up his eyes get swollen almost shut. The vet told us to give him benedryl every 4 to 6 hours. It calms him down and the swelling goes away. Needless to say we keep a very close eye on him when he is outdoors.
—Guest Wanda

Dog stepped on a bee

My dog was literally frolicking in the yard when all of a sudden she jumped backward and then started trembling. I saw a bee fly away from her but I didn't realize she'd stepped on it until later. I carried her into the house and when I put her down, she was clearly lame and still shaking uncontrollably. I took her to the vet right away, and the vet could see that the bottom of her paw had been stung. A steroid shot in the office and some antihistamines and painkillers for later that day helped her a lot. By the next day she was back to herself.
—NancyL.

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Scorpions Snakes and Insects - has your pet been stung or bitten?

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