Stings and Bites in Dogs: Wasps, Snakes, Caterpillars

On walks, a curious dog with its nose to the ground sometimes gets stung or bitten. Most insect stings are harmless, but some situations — a snake, a processionary caterpillar, an allergic reaction — are true emergencies.

This article is for information only and does not replace advice from a veterinarian.

Insect stings (wasp, bee)

A single sting on the body causes local swelling and pain, usually harmless. The situation becomes serious if the sting is in the mouth or throat (risk of swelling that obstructs breathing), if there are multiple stings, or if there’s an allergic reaction (swollen muzzle, hives, lethargy, difficulty breathing). Remove any visible stinger, keep the dog calm, apply cold if possible, and get emergency care at any serious sign.

Snakebite (viper)

A viper bite causes sharp pain and rapid swelling (often on the muzzle or legs), sometimes with two puncture marks. Keep the dog calm (exertion spreads the venom), do not apply a tourniquet, do not cauterize, and get to a veterinarian immediately: this is an emergency. The same first-aid rules apply to other venomous snakes wherever you’re traveling.

Processionary caterpillar

Contact with a pine processionary caterpillar (springtime, pine trees — a hazard to know about in southern Europe in particular) is very serious: the stinging hairs cause a violent reaction, especially if the dog licks it — swollen tongue, heavy drooling, possible tissue necrosis. Rinse the mouth with water without rubbing and rush to the veterinarian as an emergency.

Sources

See our guide to first aid for injuries on walks. General recommendations; in an emergency, seek veterinary care immediately.