Dogs and snakes! What to watch out for!

In Australia, you always need to be wary of snakes. Especially in warmer weather and near fresh water sources such as creeks or dams. Snakes are most active between October and April in more temperate parts, year round in others. Snakes don’t usually seek out any interaction with us, but as many dogs will chase them or try to kill them they may be bitten as a result. Tiger and Brown snakes are responsible for most of  snake bites on our pets in Australia.

Minimise risk of snake bite:

• avoidance! very important. Consider leaving your best friend with a carer or at a good kennel facility if the risk of encountering snakes is high
• keep your buddy on a leash on walks and out of long grass where snakes are well camouflaged
• don’t let your pets play with a dead snake – there is still venom in their fangs
• ensure their sleeping area is secure so they cannot escape and that snakes cannot get in. Don’t store food where they are sleeping.

Know the signs:
You may only notice one or a few of the following and they can be seen anywhere from one to tweny-four hours after a bite. Signs of snake bite include:

• vomiting
• sudden collapse
• dilated pupils
• weakness in back legs- progresses to paralysis where they are unable to walk
• trembling/shaking
• blood in urine or vomit.

If you suspect a snake has bitten your pup or they are showing any of the above clinical signs you MUST seek veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY, even if they have ‘seemingly’ recovered.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your fur kid and snakes.