Your Labrador retriever Jake is quite an outdoorsy dog. Each day, your four-year-old canine housemate clamors for his neighborhood walks and dog park runs. Your adventurous pooch often romps in nearby tall grass and brush. Unfortunately, the local insect population congregates in these spots, waiting for your tasty companion. Although your healthy dog shakes off most bug bites, some predators represent real dangers. Fortunately, your Marietta vet can diagnose and treat Jake’s bite complications.
Universal Symptoms
No matter which predator feasts on Jake, he could display common symptoms. You might notice redness and swelling at the bite location; and his face could appear puffy. If he’s allergic to the insect’s saliva or venom, his skin can turn a reddish color. He might have trouble breathing and/or vomit. If you see any of these symptoms, quickly get your dog to the vet.
Nasty Ticks
Jake’s good-sized body provides opportunistic ticks with many body attachment points. These vicious creatures will especially enjoy his head, ears, neck, and feet. If he’s bitten, he can experience infection, irritation, and anemia. Ticks often transmit serious (and potentially fatal) Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis.
Buzzing Bees
Bees also enjoy spring, summer, and fall weather. If your intensely curious pooch thrusts his nose into the wrong place, and gets stung, he might yelp loudly with pain. He could also furiously rub his swelling muzzle and lips on the ground.
Ravenous Flies
Jake represents a veritable feast for biting flies. Fly bites can cause crusty-looking sores or bumps, particularly around his face or ears. To avoid infection, obtain professional treatment without delay.
Creepy Spiders
Your curious dog has probably found at least one spider’s nest. If he’s bitten by a non-poisonous North American spider, he might only experience swelling and localized discomfort.
However, if Jake falls victim to the dangerous brown recluse, he’ll face serious risks. These toxic insects lurk in dark spots around sheds, wood piles, and doghouses. If this spider bites him, the venom will spread slowly, leaving a dark-colored ulcer after killing his tissues. The ulcers are slow healing, often producing complications. If you suspect a brown recluse has nailed your dog, quickly rush him to the vet.
Your Marietta vet can provide general insect bite treatment guidelines. If you suspect Jake might be experiencing an allergic reaction, seek immediate veterinary attention.
