Bee and Wasp Venom Desensitisation
Some pets can experience severe allergic reactions to bee or wasp stings, including life-threatening anaphylaxis, similar to what is seen in humans. When your pet’s history suggests a serious reaction, we offer specialised venom allergy testing and venom immunotherapy to help reduce the risk of future stings.
If your pet is currently having breathing difficulty, collapse, repeated vomiting or severe swelling after a sting, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
When Is Venom Allergy Testing or Desensitisation Recommended?
Venom allergy testing and desensitisation are typically recommended for dogs and cats with a history of significant or severe reactions following a bee or wasp sting. This may include pets that have experienced rapid swelling, collapse, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or other signs consistent with an allergic or anaphylactic reaction.
These reactions are distinct from the more common localised swelling or mild irritation seen with most stings, and may become more severe with repeated exposure. In these cases, venom allergy testing is used to confirm sensitivity to specific bee or wasp venoms and guide the development of a targeted desensitisation program.
Venom desensitisation is considered when there is a confirmed risk of severe allergic reaction, with the aim of reducing the likelihood and severity of future reactions and improving safety for pets that spend time outdoors.
What Bee and Wasp Venom Testing Involves
Venom allergy testing is performed by injecting gradually increasing amounts of purified bee or wasp venom into the skin while your pet is under monitored sedation.
If a strong skin reaction occurs, the test is stopped immediately.
Results are interpreted to confirm specific venom sensitivity.
Venom desensitisation is the only medically proven treatment for venom allergies, going beyond symptom management to target the underlying allergic response. Our team also provides guidance on avoidance strategies, emergency preparedness, and client education, helping you and your pet enjoy outdoor activities with greater confidence.
Severe sting reactions can be unpredictable, and repeat stings may result in more significant reactions without warning. If your pet has a confirmed strong reaction, we may recommend venom immunotherapy, also called desensitisation.
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Bee and Wasp Venom Immunotherapy (Desensitisation)
Treatment phases
Induction Phase: Small amounts of the venom are introduced gradually to retrain the immune system. The pace and schedule vary depending on your pet’s individual sensitivity and safety considerations.
Maintenance Phase: Once the target dose is reached, injections are given at regular intervals, often for life, to maintain tolerance.
Administration
Delivered as subcutaneous injections, either at home or in clinic depending on your pet’s stage in therapy.
Training and guidance are provided to ensure you feel confident administering injections safely.
Early injections, or those for pets with very strong reactions, may be given under in-clinic supervision for added safety.
Effectiveness and Outcomes
Venom desensitisation can significantly reduce the risk or severity of allergic reactions to future stings.
It is the only medically proven treatment that modifies the immune system rather than just managing symptoms.
Many pets achieve long-term protection, giving owners confidence during outdoor activities.
Ongoing Care and Management
Regular venom immunotherapy can maintain long-term protection against allergic reactions. We provide guidance to help you keep your pet on track, monitor their response, and ensure therapy continues safely.
Follow-up appointments allow us to review your pet’s progress, adjust doses if needed, and address any concerns.
A consistent treatment schedule is critical as interruptions can reduce the effectiveness of desensitisation.
We also provide advice on emergency preparedness, including what to do if your pet is stung outdoors.
With careful adherence to the therapy plan, many pets achieve significant protection from allergic reactions, giving you confidence when enjoying outdoor activities together.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pet needs venom testing?
Pets are usually recommended for testing if they have a history of severe reactions to bee or wasp stings, including signs of anaphylaxis such as swelling, vomiting, collapse, or difficulty breathing.
Is venom testing stressful or painful for my pet?
Testing is performed under monitored sedation, which keeps your pet calm and comfortable. Skin reactions are carefully monitored and the test is stopped immediately if a strong reaction occurs.
Pricing
Initial consultation: $425
Revisit consultation: $205
Cytology: $99
Intradermal allergy testing: $900
All other fees discussed during consultation
Referring Vets
If you are a veterinarian referring a patient for this service, please use our referral form or contact our team with relevant history, previous test results, current medications and treatment response.