Usually a single sting usually does not present a serious problem. The exception can be the sting on the nose, mouth or around the head. If the swelling is minor, just watch the animal to be sure your pet is not having breathing or swallowing difficulties. If the swelling gets huge within five or ten minutes, see a vet immediately. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Multiple stings can also cause a problem. A recent article in AKC AFIELD: THE CHRONICLE OF PERFORMANCE EVENTS, (August/September 1998 issue), entitled “The Buzz on Bee Stings,” written by Dr. Steve Bentsen, featured an in depth look at bee stings:

"The bee's stinger is barbed. When it stings, it pulls out of the bee's abdomen, taking the entire venom sac with it. Constriction of the muscles around the sac will continue pumping venom into the victim for several minutes after the sting. The venom of the bee contains a number of toxic proteins, which attack various body systems. Reactions range from local swelling and pain around the stung area to anaphylactic shock with total system collapse and death. These reactions may develop within minutes of the sting, and probably will occur if the reaction is allergic in nature. Even if the dog escapes the allergic threat of the toxins, it still faces the toxic threat of the venom. There may be damage to the liver, kidneys, nervous system or blood cells. These effects may be seen immediately or they may not be apparent for several days. Complete destruction of the dog's red blood cells may occur despite all efforts at treatment.

"The typical bee sting case that veterinarians see in their practices involves the accidental disturbance of a hive or swarm by either the dog or its owner. This usually involves stings to both parties. If this happens to you, your best defense is distance. Call your dog to you and run! Put as much space as possible between yourself and the bees. The bees may be quite aggressive and pursue a victim over some distance. By all means, attempt to help your dog to escape by calling to it or, if necessary, carrying it away with you. Just keep in mind that a swarm of angry insects can be life threatening to you as well as your dog. Once the attack has subsided, seek immediate medical attention for the dog, and for yourself if you were also stung.

"Treatment of massive bee stings is directed at preventing shock, maintaining fluid volume, and protecting the various organ systems at risk. This can be started in the field by promptly administering antihistamines, which should be in every dog owner's first aid kit. The medication can be given orally or by injection - your veterinarian can advise you on what to do.

"After rapid administration of antihistamines in the field, you should quickly take your dog to the closest veterinarian. In cases of massive stings, the dog's best chance of survival is hospitalization with aggressive treatment and close monitoring. At my practice we treat all bee sting cases with intravenous catheterization, the administration of fluids to prevent shock and circulatory collapse, the giving of corticosteroids as required and the close monitoring of vital signs. Serial blood work may be required over a two-day period to detect any damage to the dog's organs. Early detection of damage allows for prompt treatment to minimize damage wherever possible.”