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Dog stung by bee, swollen face. Gave Benadryl, should I go to vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year old | 4 lbs

I believe my dog was stung by a bee. Her eyes are very swollen and the side of her mouth is extremely swollen. I gave her Benadryl. What should I do now? Vet? At home things I can do? How long will the swelling last?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 27th, 2019

Benadryl is definitely appropriate at home. Heading in to the vet is definitely the safest option in case the swelling continues - they will likely give her an injection of steroids and benadryl and monitor her for a few minutes. If you don't go to the vet, watch her over the next couple hours for worsening of the swelling, and go to a vet if it's getting worse at any point. With facial swelling we worry about her throat swelling as well and her not being able to breath.

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on April 17th, 2018

    Boxes are so inflammatory. They often need a few days of Benadryl as usually steroids as well. When the face is really swollen I also worry about swollen airways. Here is an article about Benadryl use in dogs, but I would also encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/ Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

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