advertisement
12 December 2022
Scorpions, like other arachnids, can make even the bravest of people head for the hills. Even though they play an essential role in their ecosystem by controlling insect populations, they can still threaten you and your pet.
advertisement
Even though not all scorpion species are deadly, they are all venomous. Their venom is used both for hunting and self-defense. There are over 70 scorpion species in the United States, but only the Arizona bark scorpion can be considered deadly to pets. Even though most scorpion stings aren’t usually fatal to people, getting stung by one will ruin your day and can cause pain and tissue damage.
If your dog gets stung by a scorpion, you may hear him yelp in pain and see him hold a paw up in protest. You may notice dilated and watery eyes, drooling, trembling and tremors, difficulty breathing, and even collapse as the venom circulates through his body.
If your cat were to get stung by a scorpion, the signs might not be as clear as if your dog were to have an encounter. The common myth is that cats are immune to scorpion stings, but your cat is not. Likely, this myth came about due to several close calls in which scorpions almost stung cats but did not. In addition, cats tend to conceal signs of pain or weakness more than dogs (or humans, for that matter), which may be misinterpreted as immunity.
Scorpions are easily avoided and hunted by cats. In dim or dark conditions, their night vision allows them to spot scorpions more easily. In addition, they dodge scorpions’ attempts to sting them due to their fur’s protection and agility. Nonetheless, if you suspect your cat has been stung, follow the same steps for your cat that you would if you suspect your dog has been stung.
A scorpion sting should be treated as an emergency if you suspect your pet has been stung by one. Call your veterinarian ahead to let them know you’ll be coming in and find out what you can do at home.
When you can get to the vet within minutes, you may not have to do anything yourself; however, you may need to give an oral antihistamine if you live far away. Your vet will tell you how much of what strength to give.
Apply a cold compress to the sting and prevent your pet from licking it en route to the vet. Your vet can administer an injectable antihistamine once you arrive, remove the stinger (if it is still present) and clean the wound. They may also prescribe injections of pain medications for you to administer at home.
advertisement
Scorpions are more afraid of you than you are of them. The scorpion prefers to run and hide rather than stand and fight. Always check your shoes, as they like to hide in dark, damp places. Make sure your home’s exterior doors and windows are sealed. Keep your dog from digging in the yard, and cats should be kept indoors as much as possible.
During the rainy months or extra hot months, be extra vigilant for scorpions finding shelter in your home. An easy way to spot scorpions, shine a UV blacklight; many scorpions will glow.
In Arizona, scorpions are just a fact of life. But, despite their terrifying appearance, they can help control insects that might be even more annoying to us. Keeping an eye on what your pet is doing indoors and outdoors can keep you and them safe from being stung. Please consult your veterinarian if you have questions about scorpion stings or what you can do to help protect your pet.
advertisement
The “Wild West” period, often romanticized in literature and films, spanned only around 30 years, from roughly 1865 to 1895. This era is usually portrayed as chaotic, lawless, and filled with gunfights, cattle rustlers, and prospectors. But what made this period so unique and distinct from earlier years of westward expansion? Was it truly more wild than the decades that preceded it? And why does the end of the Civil War in 1865 seem to mark a significant turning point in this legendary chapter of American history? advertisement The Pre-Wild West: Westward Expansion Before 1865 Before the Civil War, the
Arizona is more than just desert landscapes and the Grand Canyon; it’s a state that stands out for a variety of reasons that set it apart from many other states in the U.S. Arizona has developed a reputation for embracing individuality and, in some cases, doing things better than some states. Let’s explore some of the things that make Arizona unique that you may not have known. advertisement 1. No Daylight Saving Time One of the most unique aspects of Arizona is that the state does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). While the rest of the country shifts its
Arizona is currently experiencing a period of remarkable growth. From adding jobs and increasing its population to welcoming more businesses, the state is solidifying its place as one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. Arizona’s transformation is not just a short-term trend; it’s a testament to strategic planning, smart policy-making, and an influx of motivated individuals looking to make Arizona their home. Here’s a closer look at why Arizona is on the rise. advertisement Booming Job Growth in Arizona In the last 10 years, Arizona added more than 380,000 new jobs, with the state’s job growth ranking fifth in
Arizona is home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife, and the rich ecosystem faces many challenges, with habitat loss being the most pressing issue, leading to the endangerment of species across the state. Arizona currently has 71 endangered and threatened species, and efforts to protect these species are more essential than ever. Habitat Loss and the Impact on Arizona’s Wildlife Severe drought and climate change are exacerbating habitat loss in Arizona. In addition, non-native diseases and invasive species are further disrupting the delicate balance of Arizona’s ecosystems. These factors have left many of the state’s native species struggling to
