Snake bites in dogs are potentially life-threatening and require immediate attention. Recognising the symptoms of a snake bite and taking quick action can be the difference between life and death for your dog.
Australia is home to an array of venomous snakes, which, while part of the country’s unique wildlife, pose a significant risk to both humans and animals. For dog owners, especially in rural or bushland areas, the threat of snake bites is a serious concern.
It’s crucial for dog owners to understand how to recognise the symptoms of a snake bite, how to respond effectively, and, most importantly, how to take steps to prevent snake bites from occurring.
Why Are Snake Bites Dangerous for Dogs?
Snake bites in dogs are dangerous due to the potent venom they carry. The effects of the venom depend on factors such as the type of snake, the amount of venom injected, the location of the bite, and the size and health of the dog.
In Australia, venomous snakes are generally classified into two broad categories based on the effects of their venom:
- Neurotoxic Venom: Neurotoxic venom affects the nervous system, causing symptoms like paralysis and difficulty breathing. Snakes such as the brown snake and tiger snake possess neurotoxic venom. When a dog is bitten by a snake with neurotoxic venom, it may lose control over its muscles, leading to paralysis that can affect breathing and heart function.
- Hemotoxic Venom: Hemotoxic venom, found in snakes such as the red-bellied black snake and death adder, damages the blood vessels and tissues, leading to internal bleeding, swelling, and possible organ failure. This type of venom can cause severe damage quickly, especially if the bite occurs in a critical area such as the head or neck.
The severity of a snake bite depends on several factors:
- Size of the Dog: Smaller dogs are more vulnerable to venom because they have less body mass to absorb the toxin.
- Bite Location: Bites to vital areas like the neck or head are typically more dangerous.
- Venom Amount: Some snakes inject large amounts of venom in a single bite, making the situation even more urgent.
Understanding the potential dangers associated with snake bites is critical for pet owners, as symptoms can escalate quickly.
Common Snake Bite Symptoms in Dogs
Recognising snake bite symptoms early can save your dog’s life. Symptoms can appear almost immediately or develop over a few hours, depending on the amount of venom injected and the type of snake involved. There are several stages of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Here are the key symptoms to look out for:
Early Symptoms may include
- Sudden Weakness or Collapse: One of the most common initial signs is a sudden loss of strength. Your dog may collapse or appear unusually weak. They may have difficulty standing or walking, and may not respond to commands as usual.
- Vomiting or Drooling: Excessive salivation and vomiting are frequent signs of snake bites. These symptoms occur as the body tries to fight off the venom. Vomiting can indicate that the dog’s body is reacting to the venom, and drooling is often a sign of distress.
- Pain and Anxiety: Dogs bitten by snakes are often in pain and may exhibit signs of anxiety or agitation. This is usually accompanied by rapid panting and restlessness.
Progressing Symptoms may include:
- Paralysis: Neurotoxic venom can cause paralysis, starting in the hind limbs and potentially progressing to other parts of the body. Dogs may be unable to move or walk properly, and in severe cases, they may become completely paralysed.
- Breathing Difficulties: Paralysis may affect the muscles used for breathing, leading to laboured breathing or even complete respiratory failure. The dog may appear to be gasping for breath or may not breathe at all.
- Seizures: Severe reactions to the venom may lead to seizures. Seizures are a medical emergency, and immediate veterinary care is required.
- Bleeding or Swelling Near the Bite Area: Hemotoxic venom may cause swelling, bruising, or bleeding around the bite site. This is particularly dangerous if the bite is located in an area where swelling can affect critical blood flow, such as the neck or head.
- Signs of Shock: Dogs may go into shock due to the venom's effects, characterised by pale gums, a rapid heart rate, and weak pulses. If untreated, shock can quickly become life-threatening.
Recognising dog snake bite symptoms quickly can be life-saving. Even subtle changes in your dog’s behaviour, such as increased drooling or difficulty walking, could be signs of a snake bite - it’s important to be aware of the symptoms, and what to do in the event of a snake bite.
What to Do if Your Dog is Bitten by a Snake
If you suspect your dog has been bitten by a snake, it’s essential to act quickly and calmly. Immediate first aid can increase your dog’s chances of survival. There are some steps you can take until veterinarian care is available to you.
Step-by-Step Guide to Immediate First Aid:
- Keep Your Dog Calm and Immobilised: The first thing you should do is keep your dog calm. Stress and movement can cause the venom to spread more rapidly through your dog’s bloodstream. Avoid allowing your dog to walk or move as this can exacerbate the effects of the venom. Carry your dog if necessary, and keep them as still as possible.
- Avoid Washing the Wound: Do not attempt to wash or clean the bite wound. Washing the wound can spread the venom or make it harder for the veterinarian to assess the injury. It’s best to leave the wound alone and let the vet examine it.
- Do Not Apply a Tourniquet: Contrary to some misconceptions, applying a tourniquet is not recommended. Restricting blood flow can cause more damage to tissues and increase the risk of complications. The venom should be allowed to travel through the bloodstream, even if that is a dangerous process.
- Seek Emergency Veterinary Care Immediately: Time is critical when dealing with snake bites. Call your veterinarian or emergency pet service immediately. Let them know that your dog has been bitten by a snake, and they can prepare for the appropriate treatment. If possible, try to transport your dog to the clinic without delay.
- Identify the Snake (If Safe): If you can do so safely, try to remember details about the snake, such as its colour, size, and markings. This information will be helpful to the veterinarian in determining which type of antivenom to administer. However, never attempt to catch or kill the snake.
Treatment for Snake Bites in Dogs
Once your dog reaches the veterinary clinic, the veterinarian will begin the treatment process. Snake bites require emergency care, and quick action can dramatically improve your dog’s chances of survival. Here’s what you can expect during treatment:
- Antivenom Administration: The most effective treatment for snake bites is antivenom. The antivenom neutralises the venom and prevents further damage to the body. The type of antivenom used will depend on the species of snake involved. In some cases, multiple doses of antivenom may be needed.
Supportive Care: In addition to antivenom, your dog will likely require supportive care to help them recover. This can include oxygen therapy if your dog is having trouble breathing, or IV Fluids to help maintain hydration as well as stabilise and support vital organ function while the venom is being neutralised.
- Monitoring: Your dog will need to be closely monitored in a veterinary facility, as symptoms may worsen even after initial treatment. Monitoring ensures that any complications, such as respiratory failure or shock, are quickly addressed.
Prompt veterinary intervention is essential, and the sooner your dog receives treatment, the better their prognosis.
How to Prevent Snake Bites in Dogs: Tips for Pet Owners
While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of snake bites, there are several steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your dog being bitten:
- Keep Dogs on Leashes: When walking your dog, especially in areas known to have snakes, always keep them on a leash. This will prevent them from wandering into tall grass, underbrush, or areas where snakes might be hiding.Clear Your Yard: Regularly mow your lawn, trim bushes, and clear any debris or piles of rocks that might serve as hiding places for snakes. A tidy yard will make it less likely for snakes to take up residence.
- Avoid Snake-Prone Areas: During peak snake activity periods, typically in spring and summer, try to avoid taking your dog to areas where snakes are commonly found, such as bushland or long grass.
- Snake Avoidance Training: Consider enrolling your dog in a snake avoidance training programme. Preventing snake bite symptoms in dogs starts with reducing exposure to snakes and this training can help dogs recognise snakes and avoid them, potentially reducing the risk of a bite.
- Prepare In Advance When on Holiday in a Snake Prone Area: Contact the closest treating vet in your area and call them to see what antivenom they have on hand for snakes common to that area.
Costs of Treating Snake Bites
Treatment for snake bites can be expensive, with costs potentially running into thousands of dollars, depending on what is undertaken at the veterinarian.
- Diagnostic tests: to identify the type of snake venom can cost up to $850
- Antivenom Treatment: to neutralise the snake venom can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000+
- Hospitalisation and Supportive Care: post procedure care and hospitalisation for your dog can add an additional $500 to $1000+
To mitigate this financial burden, consider investing in pet insurance that covers snake bites and other emergencies.
Additionally, investing in research, training, and other preventive care can help reduce the risk of other health problems, ultimately saving money in the long run.
Act Quick, But Stay Calm
Recognising the symptoms of snake bites early and seeking immediate veterinary care can save your dog’s life.
Taking steps to prevent snake bites, such as keeping your dog on a leash, clearing your yard, and enrolling in snake avoidance training, can significantly reduce the risk of a bite. If your dog is bitten, stay calm, act quickly, and get your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
For more tips, resources, and breed-specific health information, visit Dogz Online’s Resource Centre on Dog Care. From expert advice on tick prevention to comprehensive pet care guidance, Dogz Online is your trusted source for finding your forever companion from a registered breeder to ensuring the well-being of your dog.
