Dogs, like people, are exposed to bites from any type of insect or arachnid. The areas of its body with less hair and the specimens that remain outside or have access to certain shed-type places are especially sensitive.
In this article on our site we are going to focus on spider bites in dogs. We will look at how to detect them and what we should do if we suspect that our dog has been bitten.
How to identify a spider bite in dogs?
It is not very common for dogs to be affected by spider bites and, if this is the case, there are usually no major complications. Normally, these bites go completely unnoticed. But, depending on the species of spider, we could notice serious signs, beyond the typical red bites in dogs that could be left by both spiders and insects. Therefore, except in specific cases, if we detect a bite, unless we discover the spider, it is difficult for us to know which animal it was We will have to review the circumstances of the dog to formulate a hypothesis.
Symptoms of spider bites in dogs
In general, spider bites in dogs will produce only a reddish mark or a slight swelling more or less visible. Some dogs may be bothered, so they will scratch themselves to try to relieve themselves. In others, the bites could be complicated by an infection, so we will detect redness, pus, pain or heat in the area
In the less common cases in which we see other symptoms, these will depend on the causing spider. These are the signs that appear when the bite is due to a toxic arachnid for dogs:
- Very intense pain at the site of the sting.
- Very pronounced nervousness.
- Fever.
- Weakness.
- Incoordination.
- Paralysis.
- Joint and muscle pain.
- Muscular and abdominal stiffness.
- Seizures.
- Trouble breathing.
- Hypersalivation.
- Vomiting and diarrhea.
In the most serious cases the dog goes into shock and dies. The fatal outcome is usually due to the bite of the black widow. For its part, the brown recluse causes necrosis in the area of the bite.
The main problem is that these symptoms are compatible with various pathologies, so unless we have seen the spider, the diagnosis may be delayed. Lastly, a small percentage of specimens suffer an allergic reaction to the stings which, in the most severe cases, ends up causing what is known as anaphylactic shock, which it is a veterinary emergency that requires immediate assistance.
Are spider bites in dogs dangerous?
The consequences of spider bites in dogs will depend on the species involved. In other words, there are some spiders in particular that are indeed toxic to dogs and other animals, since, when they bite, they sometimes inject the body with a poison that will cause more or less damage depending on the species of spider, the amount of poison inoculated or the sensitivity of the dog's body. For example, the most dangerous is the black widow or Latrodectus spp., especially Latrodectus mactans and Latrodectus hasselti, as well as the brown recluse (Loxosceles reclusa).
Keep in mind that spider species are different depending on where you live. If there is no black widow in your country, it is obvious that she will not be able to bite your dog. If, on the other hand, it is part of the usual fauna of your locality, take the necessary precautions. The severity also depends on the number of bites and the area where they occur. For example, those inside the mouth or nostrils can cause inflammation and make it difficult to breathe even to the point of suffocation. Those of the eyelids could also be more delicate.
Discover the most poisonous spiders in the world in this other article to learn more about them.
What to do in case of a spider bite in dogs?
If we live in a territory where spiders that are potentially toxic to dogs are found, we notice any of the symptoms mentioned or we suspect that a spider has bitten our dog even though we don't know what species it is, we have que go to the vet
There is specific antidote to treat this type of life-threatening sting that will need to be administered immediately at the clinicintramuscularly or intravenously It has secondary effects, which is why it requires an exhaustive veterinary control. If we manage to capture the spider or take a picture of it and take it to the vet, we will facilitate the diagnosis.
In addition to the antidote, other drugs will be administered according to the dog's symptoms. Even so, the prognosis is guarded and, if the dog recovers, it may take weeks. On the other hand, if spiders are a problem in our place of residence, it is recommended that we inform ourselves about the species that we can find. Knowing their characteristics and their habits will make it easier for us to avoid their bites. Finally, if you discover a spider on your dog, shake it and don't kill it by crushing it against your body.
Home remedies for spider bites in dogs
If there are no poisonous spiders in our place of residence, an arachnid bite usually causes, at most, a slight swelling and itching that we can relieve by applying cold. You can use an ice cube wrapped in a cloth or any similar textile. The cold reduces congestion and, therefore, discomfort.
Before applying the cold Wash the area well with soap and water, in this way you help prevent possible infections. But, if it seems to you that the bite has become infected, you have to notify the veterinarian. In any case, keep an eye on the dog in case any other symptoms appear or the existing ones worsen.
On the other hand, if a spider has bitten your dog, you have already gone to the vet, he has administered the appropriate treatment and now only the wound remains, you can promote its healing with these remedies: "Home remedies to heal wounds in dogs".
