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Dog's ear flopped after bug bite, given Benadryl. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 7 months and 7 days old | 14 lbs

My 7 month old dog was bitten/stung by some sort of bug yesterday. I think it's a bee sting but since I didn't see it happen I'm not really sure. We've been giving him benadryl every 8hrs and it seems to be helping some with swelling and his itching but just recently one of his ears flopped over and won't stand up. Does that mean something else going on? I haven't really read anything about that happening before so I'm a little confused.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on May 27th, 2017

Poor Rollo! A sudden onset of swelling and itching certainly sounds like an allergic reaction. Some allergic reactions do not respond to antihistamines alone and require corticosteroids. At this point, your best bet is to take Rollo to the vet (or an emergency vet if your local vet is closed) for evaluation and they will be able to prescribe steroids, if indicated. You can also try bathing Rollo in a gentle oatmeal-based dog shampoo or gentle baby shampoo in case he is having an allergic reaction to something in the environment other than a bug bite. I hope that all goes well!

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