What’s Buzzing - and Why It’s a Bigger Deal Than You Think
There’s nothing like a sunny Canadian backyard and a curious pup with their nose in every corner. Or a cat swatting at anything that moves. But while wasps and flies might seem like just another summer nuisance, they can pose serious health risks to pets - especially the ones who can’t resist chasing or chomping.
If you’ve ever brushed off a fly as harmless or waved off a wasp with no second thought, this post is for you. We’re breaking down the hidden dangers of common backyard bugs - and how to protect your pets with smart, effective, and pet-safe solutions from Brindle Pet Supplies.
Why Are Wasps and Flies So Dangerous for Pets?
Dogs and cats are explorers by nature - and unfortunately, flying insects often end up on the “must investigate” list. Here’s why that curiosity can lead to unexpected trouble:
🐝 Wasps: The Repeat Offenders
Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times - and they don’t need much provocation. A curious snout near a nest, or a swat of a paw, can trigger an aggressive defense. Wasps are especially dangerous because:
- Their stings are painful and can cause severe swelling.
- They may sting repeatedly.
- Dogs and cats can develop allergic reactions or anaphylaxis after one sting.
🪰 Flies: The Silent Spreaders
Flies might not have a sting, but their danger is more insidious. Houseflies, stable flies, and biting flies are known to:
- Transmit bacteria like E. coli and salmonella.
- Lay eggs on pet fur or open wounds.
- Cause dermatitis or fly strike, especially around ears or tails.
And because pets often eat bugs they catch, this puts them at risk of digestive issues, internal parasites, and even toxicity depending on what the fly had previously landed on.
Symptoms of Bug Bites, Stings, or Illness in Pets
Not sure if your pet was stung or bitten? Here are signs to watch for:
- Sudden swelling - especially around the face, mouth, or paws
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Redness, welts, or rashes
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling
- Laboured breathing or wheezing
- Weakness or collapse (urgent - contact your vet immediately)
It’s important to monitor your pet closely after any outdoor play, especially in late summer when wasp and fly activity peaks.
Backyard Danger Zones for Insect Encounters
Wasps and flies are opportunistic. Even a tidy yard can become an insect hangout without you realizing it. High-risk spots include:
- Under patio furniture or decks (prime wasp nesting zones)
- Garbage cans, compost piles, and recycling bins
- BBQs or picnic areas (wasps are drawn to meat and sweets)
- Bird baths, plant saucers, or puddles (perfect fly breeding grounds)
Take a quick walk around your yard weekly to identify and address potential hot spots.
Pet-Safe Pest Control: What Works (and What to Avoid)
When protecting your pets from insects, choosing the right kind of pest control is just as important as acting quickly.
Avoid:
- Aerosol insecticides or chemical foggers: These are often highly toxic to cats and dogs.
- Sticky traps or open bait: Curious pets might get stuck or ingest something harmful.
- Essential oils in high concentrations: Even natural isn’t always safe for pets.
Use:
- Enclosed, pet-safe traps placed away from your pet’s reach
- Natural insect baits or lures
- Regular yard maintenance and trash control
- Vet-approved topical protection (for fleas, ticks, and biting flies)
Brindle Picks: The Best Products to Protect Pets from Wasps and Flies
Brindle Pet Supplies carries a curated lineup of safe, science-backed pest control solutions. Here are the ones we recommend most for the late summer season:
🐝 Rescue! W•H•Y Trap for Wasps, Hornets and Yellowjackets
This all-in-one trap is your best defense against backyard invaders - without using harmful sprays or poisons. It targets 20 species of stinging insects using a specialized attractant (no mixing required). Best of all, it’s non-toxic and pet-safe when hung properly. It’s reusable, weather-resistant, and designed to work all season long - just hang it far from play areas and let it work its magic.
Why pet parents love it: It reduces the number of aggressive wasps near patios, gardens, and pet spaces without any chemicals.
Starting at Price: $36.99
♻️ Rescue! W•H•Y Trap Refill – 2 Week Supply
Keep your trap working all summer with these convenient refill cartridges. Each refill contains a fresh batch of the non-toxic attractant that draws wasps, hornets, and yellowjackets in fast. It’s easy to swap out - no mess, no fuss.
Perfect for: Anyone already using the W•H•Y trap who wants continuous protection through late summer and early fall (aka peak sting season).
Starting at Price: $13.99
🐝 Rescue! Yellowjacket Disposable Trap
Need something quick and low-maintenance? This disposable trap is a set-it-and-forget-it solution for yellowjacket hot spots. It comes preloaded with attractant - just pull the tab, hang it, and let it do the work. It’s ideal for campsites, cabins, and anywhere you don’t want to leave gear behind.
Bonus: It’s also great for travel - keep one in your RV or camper and toss when you’re done.
Starting at Price: $14.99
🪰 Starbar Premium Fly Bait
Flies might seem like less of a threat, but for dogs with open wounds, sensitive skin, or who spend time in barns or kennels, they can be a serious nuisance. Starbar Premium Fly Bait is a professional-grade option that kills flies fast - within 60 seconds of contact. While it’s not meant for use around pets directly, it’s highly effective in barns, garages, or outdoor perimeters when pets are not in the immediate area. Keep out of reach of pets.
Tip: Place bait trays in elevated or fenced-off zones - away from curious noses. Please note, a license is required to obtain this product.
Starting at Price: $24.99
Final Thoughts: Stay Vigilant, Stay Bug-Free
Wasps and flies might not seem like a major threat - but for your pets, they can mean pain, discomfort, or even an emergency vet visit. By understanding the risks and taking action with pet-safe insect control, you can enjoy the rest of summer without worry.
Whether you need reliable wasp traps or heavy-duty fly bait, Brindle Pet Supplies has you (and your pets) covered with solutions that are trusted by pet parents across Canada.