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When you take your canine companions out for walks or to the dog park, there is always a risk—no matter how small—that they may attract fleas or ticks. However, while it’s essential to keep an eye out for those pests, your furry friend may accidentally step in or roll over fire ant hills, so it’s crucial to spot them immediately. Below, pest control professionals explain how fire ants affect dogs and how to treat bites. 

Your Guide to How Fire Ants Affect Dogs

Do Fire Ants Harm Dogs?

pest controlIf your dog disturbs fire ant hills while walking through the neighborhood or playing in the backyard, there is a chance your pup will get bitten. When fire ants sting, they leave an alkaloid venom beneath the skin, which results in redness, swelling, and pain. Though typically not life-threatening, these bites will likely cause your dogs discomfort and may even become infected as a result of scratching. In rare cases, your dogs may be allergic to fire ants, which means bites could put their lives at risk. 

What Should You Do If Fire Ants Bite Your Dogs?

When your canine companions disturb ant hills, move them away from the area immediately. Inspect your pup for any ants that may have attached themselves to the fur and skin, and use gloves to safely remove them. Do not spray your dog with a hose or bathe them, since water may cause any lingering ants to bite more aggressively. Call a veterinarian if you notice difficulty breathing, drooling, or vomiting, as these may be signs of anaphylactic shock. To relieve itching as a result of bites, make a paste of water and baking soda, and apply it to the affected areas. 

How Can You Prevent Fire Ants?

The most effective way to prevent your dogs from becoming affected by fire ants is to schedule routine pest control services. Professional exterminators will target ant hills and nests by setting bait and then using liquid or powder insecticides to remove them. Since these products may be toxic, keep your pets away from the area until treatment is complete. 

 

 

Protect the health and safety of your pets with regular pest control services from Safeguard Pest Control. Since 1979, these exterminators have provided ant, spider, wasp, termite, gopher, and weed control to clients across California’s Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, and Tuolumne counties. Call (209) 267-1200 to book an on-site estimate and visit them online to learn more about pest control and tree services. 

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