What to do if a bee stings your pup

WHEN MY DOG Harper was a young puppy, a bee stung her on a hind leg. I didn't know what was causing all the screaming and running in circles until I saw the bee fall to the ground. I called the veterinarian, who recommended a quarter tablet of Benadryl and a cold compress. It was hours before Harper was willing to eat or go outside to potty.

It's bee season again. Spring is a busy time for bees, as they have come out of hibernation and are gathering food, pollinating plants in the process.

Bees are beneficial and for the most part beneficent, but like most of us, they can become cranky when it's hot and humid, or rainy, or if other bees are robbing their hives. And dogs or cats that take a curious or aggressive interest in bees or wasps are likely to receive payback in the form of a sting on the nose or head.

An angry bee is a danger to pets. Veterinarian Marty Becker and I have gathered some tips to help you prevent or treat the stings of summer.

*  "Beeproof" your yard and home. It's good to have bees visit your flowers to pollinate them, but to prevent them from setting up housekeeping full time in your yard or home, remove or cover possible nesting sites, such as overturned flower pots, holes in trees or walls, drains or attic vents. Call an expert about removal if you find a nest in the eaves of your home, in the attic or in trees.

*  Honeybees may want to drink from your pet's outdoor water dish. If you are an urban beekeeper (and who isn't these days?), provide bees with their own source of water and place pet dishes well away from hives. To further discourage bees from sipping a pet's water, mix two tablespoons of vinegar with a gallon of water, and fill pet dishes with it.

*  If you see your pet get stung by a bee, remove the stinger right away. Instead of grasping it with tweezers, which can inject more venom into the wound, scrape it away with the edge of a credit card.

*  A mild bee sting can cause a burning or itching sensation that lasts for several minutes or more. You may notice your pet chewing, licking, rubbing or scratching at the area. Mix water and baking soda to make a paste, and apply to the stung area to help relieve the pain. A cold compress can also help to bring down swelling or reduce pain.

*  Grow aloe in your yard. The gel that oozes from a cut leaf helps to soothe bee stings.

*  Keep Benadryl on hand. This antihistamine provides relief from itching, swelling and irritation. The dose depends on your dog's size. Call your veterinarian now and ask how much Benadryl to give your pet if he is stung, then write it on the box.

When you purchase Benadryl, be sure the only ingredient is diphenhydramine. Some formulations contain acetaminophen, which is toxic to pets.

*  Know the phone number and location of your nearest veterinary emergency hospital. Some animals suffer severe reactions to bee stings because they are allergic to bee venom. Known as anaphylaxis, this intense inflammatory reaction causes swelling from excessive fluid buildup in body tissues; itchiness; vomiting; respiratory distress; and collapse or death. It's an emergency. Take your pet to the vet right away.

Pets can also suffer dangerous swelling if they are stung on the head or neck. If those areas swell, they can inhibit a dog or cat's ability to breathe. If you notice swelling on the face or neck, seek immediate veterinary assistance.