Spring is just around the corner and with spring comes insects. If you are the owner of a curious little pup who just loves to wander around, then you surely would have faced the problem of bug bites. Although most of the insect bites and stings are not really dangerous, these bites can irritate and bother your pet quite a bit. Some bug bites can result in severe life-threatening symptoms and allergies. Thus, it is best for the pet owners to know about the bug bites that might result in pain and irritation for their canine friend so that they can take steps to provide relief to them.
Symptoms
The symptoms of the bug bites will depend on which insect has bitten it. These could be bites by fleas, ticks, or mosquitoes.
Flea Bites: Fleas are dark-colored, tiny wingless insects that plague dogs and cats by feeding on their blood. Flea infestation and bites are characterized by the constant itchiness and small, red inflamed bumps on the skin surrounded by a red halo. Although similar to the bed bug bites on dogs, flea bites may cause allergies that result in severe itching, swelling, red rash, and thickening of the skin.
Mosquito Bites: Mosquito bites may result in the area becoming inflamed and red. In addition to this, you will observe swelling and itching. Watch out for the mosquito bites as they may be carrying the deadly heartworm microfilariae.
Tick Bites: Ticks on dogs can be fairly difficult to get out and are a serious parasitic infestation that may cause the debilitating Lyme disease and other dog health problems. These tiny bugs attach themselves to the dog and draw the blood. The result is swelling and infection which might become quite serious.
In addition to this, bee and wasp stings may cause sores, large bumps, swelling, redness, and intense pain. This may be accompanied by shivering and vomiting when your dog is bitten by a spider. If your pet dog displays these serious signs, it is best that you promptly alert a veterinarian.
Diagnosis
A veterinarian may be able to pinpoint the exact source of the irritation by looking at the symptoms. He may then be able to identify the type and class of insect. This will enable him to diagnose the situation and point out the actual treatment.
How to Treat Bug Bites on Dogs
Baking Soda: The alkaline nature of baking soda can help relieve the itchiness that is caused by the acidic insect bites. To use this simple home remedy, you need to make a paste of baking soda with water and rub it on the bug bite several times a day.
Meat Tenderizer: Meat tenderizers are known to reduce the irritation and the effect of the poison present in the insect stings. For this, you need to mix the tenderizer with a little water, and apply to the sting as often as possible to reduce the redness and swelling.
Aloe Vera: The cooling action of the aloe vera plant can help reduce the skin irritation caused by the allergic reaction of the bug bites. For using this natural remedy, slice off a section of the plant and rub it over the infected area to let the cooling juice soak in. In addition to this, you can also use gels and lotions available in the market.
Remove the Sting: If your dog is affected by a bee sting, then remove the stinger using a pair of tweezers. Do not try scraping it with a fingernail as you may drive it deeper into the skin.
However, if these simple home remedies for bug bites do not work, it is best to consult a veterinarian for proper treatment.
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