Science & Technology (Commonwealth Union) – The University of Glasgow in Scotland has taken key step forward in terms of veterinary science, as the university’s Small Animal Hospital has become the first facility in the UK to introduce an innovative therapy for dogs. The treatment is for dogs experiencing severe allergic responses to bee and wasp stings.
Known as Hymenoptera Venom Immunotherapy (VIT), the treatment has already been administered successfully to several canine patients. Although the therapy is still in its early stages, veterinary specialists believe it could provide a promising way to reduce the risk of repeated anaphylactic reactions in dogs.
The Small Animal Hospital is among only a select number of specialist veterinary centres worldwide equipped to offer this kind of disease-modifying treatment.
Allergies to insect venom are considered among the most dangerous sudden-onset allergic conditions affecting dogs. Symptoms may appear within minutes of a sting and, in rare cases, can escalate from skin reactions and vomiting to severe complications such as collapse, breathing difficulties, and potentially fatal outcomes.
Additionally, research shows that nearly two-thirds of dogs that suffer a severe allergic response after a bee or wasp sting are likely to experience a similar or even more serious reaction if they are stung again.
Hymenoptera Venom Immunotherapy (VIT), a treatment originally developed for humans, involves giving affected dogs carefully controlled and gradually increasing amounts of bee or wasp venom. This process helps retrain the immune system to become more tolerant of future venom exposure, greatly lowering the risk of another life-threatening allergic reaction.
At the Small Animal Hospital, the therapy is overseen by Professor Ana Rostaher, a leading global authority in veterinary VIT. Along with her research team, she has contributed to studies showing promising results, including significant protection against repeat severe allergic episodes among dogs receiving the treatment.
Evidence from the University’s clinical work and research further indicates that many dogs treated with VIT develop strong resistance against recurring anaphylaxis. When administered by experienced veterinary specialists, the therapy has also shown a strong safety record and positive outcomes for canine patients.
The treatment process begins with an initial diagnostic stage involving allergy testing, followed by a carefully supervised induction phase. This is then continued with long-term maintenance therapy, which may be required for several years to ensure lasting protection.
Professor Ana Rostaher says “Venom immunotherapy represents a major advance in how we can manage severe insect sting allergies in dogs. For affected animals, a single sting can make them very ill and even die. However, this treatment offers a proactive way to change that risk profile and provides owners with an option for further peace of mind for those animals who are severely allergic to insect stings.”
The seriousness of these allergic reactions was highlighted by the case of Amber, a Vizsla owned by Claire and Matthew Preece. Amber became the first dog in the UK to receive venom immunotherapy at the University of Glasgow’s Small Animal Hospital after suffering a life-threatening allergic response to a bee sting in July 2021.
Amber’s owners, who live in Stratford-upon-Avon, noticed a sudden and alarming change in their dog’s condition after an unnoticed bee flew into their home through an open window. Amber’s behaviour changed dramatically as she began barking in an unusual way, before quickly developing hives and vomiting. Her health rapidly worsened, prompting an urgent trip to the veterinary clinic.
Claire and Matthew had highlighted the fact that the incident was extremely distressing, with Amber requiring emergency treatment. The event also caused lasting concerns for the couple about future exposure to bees and wasps, especially during warmer seasons and outdoor activities. After learning about the innovative new therapy, they decided to take Amber to the Small Animal Hospital in Glasgow for venom immunotherapy treatment.
