“My dog’s face swelled up like a balloon. He can’t even open his eyes!”
“My Boxer is turning into a Sharpei!”
“My Westie’s face puffed up and now he’s having trouble breathing!”
Client descriptions can be quite dramatic as they watch their dog’s face swell “like a balloon” within a few minutes. Sudden changes in a dog’s appearance due to a medical problem can be pretty scary for any pet owner!
Let’s explore why even a simple thing, like smelling the roses can be dangerous for some dogs and how pet insurance coverage can help if this situation arises.
Allergic reactions are the most common cause of facial swelling in dogs. We typically see this when dogs are sensitive to:
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Bee and wasp stings, spider bites
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Flea, tick, and other bug bites
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Environmental allergens like plant pollen, dust, and mold spores
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Foods
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Medications
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Vaccinations (rare)
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Unknown triggers
Some other causes of facial swelling in dogs:
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Abscesses and cellulitis can be the result of bacterial infections caused by animal bites and puncture wounds
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Dental problems like cracked back teeth
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Tumours growing inside the mouth, muzzle, and around the eyes
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Immune system diseases and other internal medical conditions
Clinical signs associated with allergic reactions in dogs
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Rashes: Skin reactions can look like a rash, one pink or red bump, multiple pink or red bumps (hives), or localized moist red areas (known as hot spots).
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Itchiness: If a dog seems preoccupied with a certain body part and won’t stop licking, chewing, or scratching, don’t tell them to stop. Take a closer look for anything that makes you think, “hmm, that’s not normal for Fluffy.”
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Facial or limb swelling: Some dogs look like they’re trying to morph into a pufferfish. Paws may look like boxing gloves, eyelids, ears, lips and chins may quickly swell until the dog is almost unrecognizable.
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Gastrointestinal signs: Dogs may drool, retch, vomit, or pass diarrhea during an allergic reaction.
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Shock symptoms: In severe reactions, known as anaphylaxis, respiratory and cardiac distress due to throat swelling and circulatory system collapse can be life threatening without emergency treatment. Affected pets need to be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
Treatment of facial swelling caused by allergic reactions
Preparation is key! There are parasite control medications, insect repellents, and topical medications that can help prevent contact with certain insects like fleas and ticks. Monitor your dog’s sniffing in places where they may encounter spiders, wasps, and bees. Avoid feeding your pet foods that may trigger any known allergies. Ask your veterinary team about potential reactions after vaccination and with new medications.
Although over-the-counter antihistamines are not as effective for dogs as for people, your veterinarian can give you directions about emergency use if you are planning to spend time outdoors with your pets. A vet will need to assess your dog before dispensing prescription medications, which may be more effective for dogs with known allergies or previous incidents of facial swelling.
If your dog seems to be in any distress because of their clinical signs, please seek veterinary care immediately. Severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis can be life threatening and do require emergency care.
How Petsecure coverage helps
Petsecure covers examinations, taxes, and treatments for eligible insured pets suffering from allergic reactions. We also help you save up to 80% on vet bills to help you say “yes” to treatment when your pet needs it in a scary instance like that. Get your free, personalized quote today! 🐾
Dr. Colleen Fisher obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1990 from the University of Saskatchewan. She is the veterinarian for the Canadian Task Force 4 (Manitoba) Urban Search and Rescue Team. Dr. Fisher received her MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour from the University of Edinburgh in 2019. As Petline's Veterinary Medical Director, she is enthusiastic about sharing knowledge between the insurance professionals and veterinary team members that serve our mutual clients.