If you live in a rural or suburban area in the Southern states, you’ve likely seen a fire ant hill a few times in your life.

Although ant bites are rarely serious ... Fire ants are a risk to pets, so keep cats and dogs away from anthills. If your pet gets attacked, wear protective gloves and remove the ants by hand.

If you notice that your dog has stepped on a fire ant hill ... In the end, the best way to avoid the pain of a fire ant bite is to keep watch and avoid mounds whenever possible.