When you see a small, round beetle with a reddish back and spots, you immediately think ladybug, right? I know I do. Turns out, there's a difference between a ladybug and a very similar-looking lady beetle.

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Asian lady beetles are often confused for ladybugs. The biggest difference is the "M-shaped" white spots on the head, but like lady bugs, they have spots on their back. They're also slightly larger and longer than ladybugs.

Turns out, these bugs can be harmful to your dogs or cats.

According to WGRZ, it has been proven that lady beetles can be harmful to pets if enough are consumed.

Tina Wismer, a veterinarian with the ASPCA, says most pets don't care for the taste of Asian lady beetles and will likely only eat one or two, but if your pet eats a larger quantity of them, it could lead to mouth and stomach ulcers.

Both the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) and the ASPCA agree if you believe your pet ate some of these beetles, to call your vet.

These bugs often get into homes in the fall and winter, so be on the lookout for them, even if your dog isn't outside.

Who had "Asian lady beetle making your pet sick" on the 2020 bingo card?

Read the full story at WGRZ.

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