What to do if your pet is bitten by a snake
As we head into the warmer months, snakes across Australia will become increasingly more active. Dogs and cats are particularly at high risk of venomous snakebites due to their inquisitive nature and the number of highly venomous snake species in this country. Snake venom acts rapidly and may potentially be fatal. All wild snakes found in Victoria are venomous, therefore all possible snakebites must be treated as emergencies.
If your pet is bitten, do not spend time trying to identify the snake or stop to kill the snake. Remember, snakes are a protected species and it is illegal to harm them.
Not all snakebites will produce symptoms immediately. Sometimes symptoms can be delayed, but the pet may still deteriorate quickly. If your pet is seen near a snake, or you suspect may have been bitten by a snake, it is important you take your pet to your nearest available veterinary facility.
Immediate signs of snake bite may include:
- Vomiting
- Salivating
- Collapsing (sometimes followed by an apparent recovery)
- Trembling
- Difficulty walking or overall weakness
- Shallow breathing
- Big pupils
Symptoms that may also occur hours after snakebite can include
- Difficulty swallowing, or regurgitating
- Overall weakness and lethargy
- Lack of coordination when walking or jumping
- Paralysis
- Dark red/brown urine
What do you do if you suspect your pet has been bitten?
Keep your pet calm and as still as possible
- Movement can make the venom spread faster
- Carry your pet if possible
- Do not give them anything by mouth
Take your pet immediately to your nearest vet
- Do not watch for signs to develop first. Every moment can be critical and the best chance of survival is immediate veterinary care
If your pet collapses or stops breathing - Keep your pet’s airway clear of vomit if possible. If they are collapsed, keep their head down to allow vomiting and saliva to drain out. Do not put your fingers in your pet’s mouth as they may panic and bite.
- If your pet's breathing stops, or if their tongue turns blue, perform expired air resuscitation (E.A.R.) Keep their mouth closed and breathe into their nostrils. Give 1 breath every 5 seconds. Don’t stop until you reach the vet clinic
On arrival
Ensure you inform the receptionist that you suspect your pet has been bitten by a snake. All snakebites are treated as an emergency and should be seen immediately.
Decision
Severe cases are stressful as rapid treatment decisions need to be made. Your pet may be taken from you to have a catheter placed and for oxygen support. Most incidents will require antivenom: very serious cases will require life support.
Cost
Treatment for snakebites can be very expensive so pet insurance is recommended.