DOG WITH SWOLLEN EYELIDS

Question
My dog Floyd, within a week has had many health problems. His face became swollen and could not breath and was rushed to the emergency room where he was treated for an insect bite, not known exactly what insect. A few days later after he recovered he threw up and we noticed he was very sluggish, fatigued and lost noticable amount of weight. We think his medication for the Bite could be making him drowsy, but are not sure if it could be signs of a more serious problem. Now it is a week after being bitten by the insect and his eyelids have become swollen and itchy.  He is acting fine and went on his usual several mile long run.  We are concerned with his health and would like some insight on what the infection-like swelling around his eyes could be.

Answer
Hi Leslie,

Like people, some dogs have a severe reaction to certain insect bites, called an Anaphylactic Reaction.

It sounds as though your dog needs to be re-examined by your vet, since he's still having symptoms a week after the initial treatment.

If your dog develops hives or severe swelling of the face from an insect bite, you may want to discuss various options with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may give you a prescription for an 'epi-pen.' An 'epi-pen' is a special syringe and needle filled with a single dose of epinephrine. If your pet has an anaphylactic reaction or severe swelling, inject the epinephrine using the 'epi-pen' and seek emergency veterinary assistance immediately. Be sure to take the 'epi-pen' with you on any trips or hikes.

Best of luck,
Patti