Mary Allen
Insect Protection for Humans & Dogs
Parasites like fleas and ticks are a known problem for most dog owners. But they are not the only ones who can harm the animals. Mosquitoes, bees, wasps, or flies can be annoying and even dangerous for humans and dogs. Both can therefore benefit from suitable protective measures.
Beware of Pests
Insect bites don’t just affect humans. Pets can also be bitten by mosquitoes, bees, or wasps. Although they are partially protected by their fur, there are still points of attack. They are often in particularly sensitive areas such as paws or face.
Mosquito bites are usually just annoying for animals as well as humans. But they can also cause bigger problems. The constant scratching of the animals can cause wounds that become infected. On top of that, mosquitoes can transmit diseases and parasites (e.g. heartworms).
Bees or wasps buzzing around can awaken the hunting instinct. Many dogs snap at them. A sting is painful and can even cause serious problems in the mouth or nose area. In addition, the four-legged friends can also be affected by allergies that make the sting life-threatening.
And even flies can be problematic. They don’t sting, but they are true germ catapults and are magically attracted to food and water bowls lying around. There they leave behind pathogens that can also have unpleasant consequences for pets.
Protective Measures at Home
The most sensible measure at home is to ensure that insects cannot get into the house in the first place. Flyscreens for windows and doors have proven themselves here. Suitable products are available for almost every living situation. There are also special products and solutions for households with animals. They are extra strong to withstand claws and teeth. There are also special products for doors, in which a cat or dog flap can be integrated. In this way, most insects stay outside and people and animals have peace of mind in the house.
Increased hygiene is also recommended during the warm season. Dogs should be bathed regularly and bedding should be cleaned well. Bowls should be changed frequently and also cleaned well.
Protective Measures Along the Way
Contact with insects can hardly be avoided outdoors. Here you can only try to keep an eye on the dog as much as possible and, if known, avoid the vicinity of wasp nests or the like. Mosquito-rich wetlands are rather unpleasant for walks for humans and animals anyway.
Incidentally, most dogs can be trained to stop snapping at insects with a few tricks. A measure that can make sense.
In the case of an Emergency
Sudden howling, excessive salivation, constant licking of a part of the body, or limping can be signs that a wasp or bee has stung your dog. There is usually a noticeable swelling there.
In unproblematic areas, small measures are usually sufficient to alleviate it. First of all, it should be checked whether there is still a thorn in the wound. This can then be removed with tweezers. Cooling the bite under running water or with a cooling pad is good for the dog.
Care should be taken if the puncture site affects the mouth, throat, or throat, as the swelling can affect breathing. Severe reactions such as vomiting, shortness of breath, or the like can also be caused by allergies. A veterinarian should be contacted as soon as possible.