Avoiding scary snake encounters
With ten of the deadliest snake species in the world calling Australia home, a known or suspected snake bite in your pet should always be taken very seriously.
Here’s how to help protect your pet from snake bite illness.
What symptoms do snake bites in pets cause?
Whilst different species of snake venom have some variance in their effect, the most common symptoms to look out for in pets include:
- The rapid onset of weakness, wobbliness or an inability to walk
- The pet collapsing suddenly and then (apparently) recovering
- Muscular tremors
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Unusual bleeding from the nose or mouth
- Red or brown-coloured urine
Can I help to protect my pet from snake bites?
Snakes tend to be most active throughout the warmer times of the year. Hence, spring and summer are sometimes referred to as “snake season”.
During this period, it’s a good idea to keep your pet by your side on a short leash when out walking in bushier areas, as snakes are unlikely to bite unless stepped on or otherwise provoked. You can reduce snake hiding spots on your property by clearing up empty plant pots, wood stacks, junk piles, etc., and keeping vegetated areas cleared and mown.
What should I do if I think my pet has been bitten?
If you suspect that your pet may have been bitten by a snake, it’s imperative that you seek immediate veterinary attention, as time is of the essence for effective treatment.
As much as possible, limit your pet’s movement by calmly carrying or driving them to the veterinary clinic. If you think they have been bitten on one of their limbs, you can apply a firm (but not too tight) pressure bandage, wrapping from their toes to the top of the affected limb, provided that doing so does not cause significant delay in seeking veterinary care.
With effective prevention, awareness and vigilance, you and your pet can hopefully avoid any scary scaly encounters!
