Snake Bite

Hi everyone and welcome to critter chat! Sizzle sizzle shshhhhhhhhhhhh snakessss. This fortnight’s topic is about snakes and what to do in the event of your furry mate being bitten.

We live in an area that is home to some of Australia’s deadliest snakes, and a bite from one of these fellas can kill an animal in a very short amount of time. Unfortunately some pets think snakes are fun to play with and take a liking to chasing and catching them. As always, the best prevention is to keep your pet out of harms way and some ways to ensure this is:

During these warmer months, keep the grass short and tidy up the garden around your house and pets living areas
Pick up any building supplies or general rubbish that may be lying flat on the ground providing an area for snakes to hide under
Try and keep your curious pet away from areas that snakes could be sleeping or moving through
Make sure all animal feed is securely sealed to prevent rats and mice- snakes love these as a food source
Snakes generally hunt at night time, so be aware that the snakes are out even after the sun goes down, and keep an eye on your pets activities

As mentioned snakebite can kill a pet QUICKLY so please be aware of some of the signs below:

Weakness/wobbly on legs
Collapsing
Disorientation
Vomiting

· Blood in urine
· Red mouth and gums
· Dilated pupils

Should your animal present with any of these signs, please contact our surgery immediately so anti venom can be administered if necessary.

Whilst you are getting your pet to the vet clinic, keep your pet calm and quiet. If it is safe, bring the snake to the clinic with you, as this will determine a faster and more accurate diagnosis.

If you would like any further information on snakebites please feel free to speak with one of us at the clinic.