My dog has hives but no breathing issues. Is an ER visit needed?

This is probably an allergic reaction due to an insect bite or a plant outside. those reactions tend to resolve within 48 hours without treatment. if the swelling becomes too large or if your dog becomes lethargic, take him to the vet in order to get an antihistamine/steroid injection. from your description at this moment i think he is probably fine, but this can change so monitor him closely.

It does look like a bad case of hives. The problem with allergic reactions is that they often get worse, and can lead to breathing difficulties. Due to this, I would take Bruno into an urgent after hours clinic now.

They may resolve on their own in a few hours. If Blue is itchy, contact your veterinarian and discuss antihistamine use. If they worsen or spread or if he develops difficulty breathing, take him to the nearest veterinary ER. Legally, we are prohibited from recommending doses for medications, even OTC medications, in the absence of a physical exam and a VPCR ( veterinarian-patient-client relationship).

I see what you mean about the bumps on Lola! It looks like she could have hives, and that can be caused by an allergic reaction. I do recommend a visit to the ER vet now, as allergic reactions can quickly progress and cause serious problems such as respiratory distress. It's best she is treated now to prevent this from happening, so yes, please take her to an ER vet. Best of luck!

The appearance of hives can indicate some type of allergic reaction. This is certainly enough to make your dog uncomfortable and want your comfort. I would recommend checking out this article “can I give my dog...” on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach’s main website so you can safely give your dog some benedryl and see if that helps. Depending on the severity of the reaction he may need to be on benedryl for 3-5 days. If there is no response to the benedryl after this time, then you will need to take him in to the vet to be examined. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

If the symptoms don't seem to bad and if he isn't lethargic or having problems breathing just wait 2-3 hours, it should start getting better by then. in any case of respiratory problems or lethargy you must take him to the vet urgently.

That's not good. I wonder if Spot is suffering from a contact allergy causing his hives. Vomiting can also be a sign of an allergic reaction. I'm concerned about him and think it's best he sees a vet immediately. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck.