Dog Who Ate a Bee: What to Do and When to Worry

A dog eating a bee is a fairly common occurrence, especially during the warmer months when bees are most active. While usually just a painful experience, it can sometimes be more serious. This article will guide you through what to do if your dog ate a bee, the symptoms to watch for, and when to seek veterinary attention.

Recognizing the Signs of a Bee Sting

If your dog yelps suddenly while playing outside, or starts pawing at their mouth, they might have been stung by a bee. The most common sign is swelling, particularly around the face, muzzle, or paws. Other symptoms can include:

Pain and discomfort: Your dog may whimper, whine, or lick the affected area excessively.
Redness and inflammation: The sting site will likely appear red and swollen.
Difficulty breathing: In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction can cause swelling in the throat and airways, leading to breathing problems.
Vomiting or diarrhea: These can be signs of an allergic reaction.
Weakness or collapse: In cases of severe allergic reactions, your dog may exhibit signs of shock.

What to Do if Your Dog Ate a Bee

If you suspect your dog has been stung by a bee, here are the steps you should take:

Locate the stinger: If the stinger is still present, try to remove it by scraping it away with a credit card or your fingernail. Avoid using tweezers, as squeezing the stinger can release more venom.
Reduce swelling: Apply a cold compress to the affected area. You can use an ice pack wrapped in a towel, or a bag of frozen vegetables.
Monitor your dog closely: Watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, vomiting, or weakness.
Administer Benadryl (diphenhydramine): If your dog is experiencing mild swelling and discomfort, you can give them Benadryl to help reduce the symptoms. Consult with your veterinarian for the correct dosage based on your dog’s weight.
Contact your veterinarian: If your dog is showing signs of an allergic reaction, or if the swelling is severe or doesn’t improve within a few hours, seek veterinary attention immediately.

When to Seek Veterinary Attention

While most bee stings are not life-threatening for dogs, there are some situations where immediate veterinary care is essential:

Difficulty breathing or swallowing: This is a sign of a severe allergic reaction and requires immediate treatment.
Multiple bee stings: If your dog has been stung multiple times, the cumulative effect of the venom can be dangerous.
Sting inside the mouth or throat: Swelling in these areas can obstruct the airway and make it difficult to breathe.
Pre-existing medical conditions: If your dog has any underlying health issues, a bee sting could exacerbate their condition.

Preventing Bee Stings in Dogs

Here are some tips to help minimize the risk of your dog encountering bees:

Keep your dog away from flowering plants and beehives.
Avoid using scented products on your dog, as these can attract bees.
Keep food and drinks covered when outdoors.
Supervise your dog closely when they are playing outside.
Consider training your dog to “leave it” when they encounter a bee.

Dog Ate Bee: FAQs

Can a dog die from eating a bee? While rare, a severe allergic reaction to a bee sting can be fatal if not treated promptly.
What is the dosage of Benadryl for dogs? The general dosage is 1 mg per pound of body weight, but always consult your veterinarian for the correct dosage.
How long does it take for bee sting swelling to go down in dogs? Swelling typically subsides within a few hours to a few days.

“As a veterinarian, I always advise pet owners to be vigilant during bee season and to seek immediate veterinary care if their dog exhibits any signs of an allergic reaction after a bee sting,” says Dr. Emily Carter, DVM.