their pet has been stung by a wasp or bee.
In general such a sting is no more dangerous than the equivalent in a human
being. Only a small percentage of individuals have allergic or excessive systemic
reactions to such stings. If you know your pet has such a sensitivity or it
has multiple stings certainly contact the emergency services straight away.
However if your pet only appears to have been stung once, it is nowhere near
an airway and your pet does not seem particularly distressed, there is no need
to seek urgent assistance.
Applying standard topical first-aid procedures is often quite enough to give
relief to your pet, who will feel better within the hour.
The important thing is to identify whether the sting was
caused by a wasp or a bee as the first aid treatment
depends on this.
BEE STINGS
If a sting has been left in your pet it will almost invariably be a bee sting.
The culprit can usually still be found at the scene of the crime and usually dies
as a result of losing it's sting.
Bee sting toxin is extremely acidic in nature.
Bathing the area in a moderately concentrated solution of bicarbonate
(Baking Powder) gives quick relief. If out on a walk, as with a nettle sting
rubbing the area with Dandelion leaf also gives quick relief.
Bees - Bicarbonate
WASP STINGS
If your pet has been stung by a wasp, the sting is seldom left behind and the
wasp suffers little harm. They can often sting several times.
Wasp sting toxin is quite alkaline in nature.
Bathing the area in a dilute acid solution gives quick relief.
Lemon juice and Vinegar can both be used to give quick relief to a sufferer.
Because multiple wasp stings are more likely you should also consider giving
your pet an antihistamine such as Piriton (Chlorpheniramine). Only do this once
you have spoken to a vet however: whilst early treatment is important, careful
consideration of concurrent medication dosage and species sensitivity is important.
W ASP stings - Dilute Acidic solution