How to handle snake season
Australia is home to the world's most venomous snakes and whilst these beautiful creatures will always choose to flee over attack if not threatened, our cats and dogs may not understand to leave these guys alone.
Tiger (mainly southern Australia) and Brown (all over Australia) snakes are responsible for most of the bites of our pets in Australia.
We know that snakes are usually found close to fresh water such as creeks or dams, and in the long grass or bush. Snakes also may be found in sheds, roofs and wood piles. This knowledge helps us with a snake safety plan which is based on avoidance.
Snake safety plan for your pet
Keep the grass short near the home
Walk on short grass or paths, avoid long grass and bush, especially near waterways
Keep your pet close and contained on walks
Don’t let your pet play with a dead snake – the venom in their fangs can still cause a fatality even after the snake itself is dead
Ensure your pets sleeping area is secure so they cannot escape, and snakes cannot get in.
Store pet food away from the sleeping area as this can attract snakes.
In the unhappy event your pet is bitten by a snake you need to see your local Vet immediately.
Symptoms can be seen anywhere from 1-24 hours after a bite and depend on the type of snake and how much venom was injected. The venom can stop the blood's ability to clot resulting in excessive bleeding, destruction of body tissue, and has the potential to cause fatality within an hour.
Symptoms can include any or all of the following:
Vomiting
Sudden collapse
Dilated pupils (eyes look wide)
Weakness progressing to paralysis, starting in the back legs moving to all legs
Trembling/shaking
Blood in urine or vomit
If you suspect a snake bite or your pet is showing any of the above clinical signs you must seek veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY, even if they have ‘seemingly’ recovered.
Stay calm, keep your pet as still as possible and head straight to your local Vet, have someone call them advising that you’re on the way so the Veterinarian can be prepared to look after your pet the second you walk in the door.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your fur kid and snakes.
Note: if you see a snake around your house or work space keep calm and call a professional local snake catcher, keep your pets secured and an eye on the location of the snake from a far and safe distance until the handler arrives.
