Ants

To provide you with the most thorough results possible, we test for a combination of ants, including Carpenter Ants (Camponotus pennsylvanicus) and Fire Ants of the Solenopsis invicta and richteri species.

Carpenter Ants: As their name suggests, these little guys have an affinity for wood. If you notice small wood shavings or what looks like saw dust around your home, you might have some unwanted guests! This saw dust-like material is actually called “Ant Frass” and is made up of the remnants of wood particles and ant feces. Carpenter ants usually leave piles of frass around the entrances to their nests, giving you a clue as to where they're hiding. It's possible for your dog to have a reaction to an ant's bite, ant frass, or both.

While Carpenter Ants are typically harmless and don't usually bite unless provoked or threatened, they are capable of leaving a nasty bite. These bites can become red, inflamed, itchy, and can be quite irritable to your dog.

Fire Ants: Fire Ants, on the other hand, can be far more dangerous and leave very painful bites due to the release of Alkaloid Venom. Unlike other ants who bite and then “spray” venom, Fire Ants will use their mandibles to bite their victim before releasing a painful sting from their abdomen. Bites from a Fire Ant usually begin with an intense stinging sensation followed by a painful burning feeling. While the initial pain is typically short-lived, the itchiness tends to intensify over the following days. In the event that your dog steps on, or rolls over, a Fire Ant nest, it's crucial to get the ants off them ASAP. Rinse your pup in water and use a fine-tooth comb to pick the ants out of your dog's fur. But be careful! These fiery little guys can, and will, still bite!

Tip: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” Since they spend most of their time on all fours, dogs are more likely to get bit on their paws or lower legs. Check your pup's paws after they come in from playing to get a one up on those biting bugs!