SNAKEBITE

The warmer weather is here, and snakes are coming out of hibernation looking for food and a mate. During the hotter seasons snakes are quite active and tend to be out and about during the early morning and evening. The most common venomous snakes we see are the Eastern Brown, Tiger, Taipan and Red-bellied Black, and their bites are lethal. We also see Whip snakes, and whilst venomous do not generally result in death.

You may think 'I live in town, so I don't need to be concerned', but the majority of our snake bite cases are from right here in our local residential areas. 

Snake venom has anti coagulating factors which stop your pet’s blood from clotting, meaning they can bleed to death. One of the first tests we perform to determine snake bite is a clot test to see if your pet’s blood is clotting. We then refer to the history of what has occurred before coming to the clinic and what symptoms your pet is currently showing. 

Unless you actually see the encounter between your pet and the snake it is difficult to know if it is snakebite and in most cases you will not see a snakebite wound, so it’s important that you take note of all the signs and symptoms your pet is displaying to help us determine if it is snakebite. Even if you are unsure, bring your pet in immediately as the sooner we can treat, the better the chances of survival.

It is ILLEGAL to kill any snake, however if your pet has killed the snake, if you can safely take a photo of its head and underside as this can help us determine the species, so we can decide which treatment is required.

SIGNS OF SNAKEBITE IN DOGS:

• Sudden collapse

• Weakness/Lethargy

• Loss of bladder and bowel control

• Muscle tremors and shaking

• Dilated pupils, reduced blink

• Bleeding from the mouth, nose or anus

• Vomiting

• Seizures

SIGNS OF SNAKEBITE IN CATS:

• Lethargy

• Generalised weakness

• Paralysis

• Low temperature

HOWEVER, all snakebites are different, and symptoms can vary depending on the amount of venom injected and the type of snake. Another common occurrence in dogs, is a sudden collapse followed by sudden recovery which often confuses people, your pet will however begin to decline so it is important to get them to the vet as soon as possible. If you see your pet with a snake but they do not appear to have any reactions it is important to get them checked out as they can be asymptomatic for up to 24 hours following snakebite, but still have had a lethal dose. So, monitoring for any symptoms is very important.

HOW TO REDUCE THE CHANCE OF SNAKES IN YOUR YARD

Avoid creating habitats for snakes and snake food sources such as rats, mice and frogs. Debulk and clean up garden areas, remove any green waste or articles from around your yard, snakes don't like to be out in the open, so this reduces areas where snakes can hide. Reduce any hidey holes for rodents and frogs by filling any holes in structures such as rock walls. Keep sheds clear and tidy. If you have aviaries, make sure you snake proof them and keep them regularly cleaned to avoid attracting rodents.