Snake Bites in Dogs: What Every Dog Owner Should Know

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

When dogs get nosy, it can lead to trouble – especially with snakes! Here’s what you need to know about how to treat snake bites in dogs.

Though cats are the ones known for their curiosity, dogs also have a tendency to get into trouble. When your dog is out in the woods, he’s likely to encounter many potential dangers including snakes. Even if a snake isn’t poisonous, snake bites are painful and can lead to infection. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about snake bites in dogs.

How High is the Risk for Snake Bites?

There are 25 different types of poisonous snake found in North America and every state has at least a handful. While not every snake has deadly venom, the bite itself can be very painful for a dog and the wound may be susceptible to infection. If your dog is bitten by a venomous snake, timely treatment is extremely important. But how high is the risk for snake bites and what are the signs of a snake bite?

Related:Dog Rattlesnake Vaccine – Is It Effective?

If your dog is bitten by a snake, you should err on the side of caution and assume that it is venomous. Non-venomous snakes don’t typically bite their prey – they constrict it. In cases where your dog gets bitten by a snake, the bite is most likely to occur on the head or neck. Not every bite delivers a dose of venom but, again, it is better to be safe than sorry and treat any bite as an emergency situation. Here are some of the signs of snake bite in dogs:

    Snake venom can affect one or several of your dog’s bodily systems including the nervous system, cardiopulmonary system, and even the coagulation system. The amount of venom delivered is not relative to the size of the snake and you should never try to remove the venom from the bite yourself.

    What Should You Do If Your Dog Is Bitten?

    If you see your dog bitten by a snake, make note of any identifying characteristics so you can tell your veterinarian what type of snake it was. Once you’ve done so, get your dog to the vet as soon as you possibly can. Do not attempt to extract the venom and do not apply a tourniquet yourself. Restrict your dog’s movement and immobilize the affected limb if your dog is bitten on the leg. Do not apply ice and do not apply pressure or covering to the wound.

    When you get your dog to the vet, he will be able to determine the proper course of treatment. In some cases, antivenom may be administered but it is most effective within 4 hours of a bite – the longer you wait, the less effective it may be. In some cases, IV fluids and oxygen support may be administered to control shock and to prevent tissue damage. Anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, antihistamines, and anticonvulsants may also be called for. Your dog will need to be monitored for a minimum of 12 hours and his recovery depends on the type of snake, the size of the dog, and the promptness of treatment.

    What About the Rattlesnake Vaccine?

    If you live in an area where rattlesnakes are common, you may have heard of the rattlesnake vaccine. Unfortunately, there is a great deal of controversy surrounding the use of the vaccine, so you’ll need to talk to your veterinarian to determine if it’s something you want for your dog. The vaccine works by inciting your dog’s immune system to produce antibodies against rattlesnake venom, essentially neutralizing the toxin. The problem is that the vaccine isn’t a guarantee of safety and it can actually reduce the signs if the dog gets bitten. More study is needed to determine the efficacy of the vaccine.

    Unfortunately, the world is full of danger and you can’t always protect your dog. The best thing you can do is know what to look for when it comes to venomous snakes in your area and be on the lookout when you take your dog into a high-risk area.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    ADVERTISEMENT

    You May Like

    Pet Travel And Housesitting: The Joys Of Travelling Full-Time With My

    For many, travel is a way of life. Take Lauren Bassart. She packed up her hubby and dog and took to the road to travel the world. Recently, Lauren began hous…
    Bardino Majorero

    The Bardino Majorero was traditionally used as a cattle dog and livestock guardian. This means he can sometimes be aloof or even aggressive around strangers
    Tick SR Makes Dog Tick Removal Quick and Painless

    If your dog as ever had ticks, you never forget that experience. But there''s a solution for quick and painless dog tick removal and it''s called Tick-SR.
    How To Load a Kong Like A Pro: Sausage Gun Hack

    Perfect for dogs that need to be kept busy, treat toys are a godsend to pet parents. But did you know that there''s an art to stuffing treat toys - it''s a sausage gun!
    Dog Travel Essentials: What to Pack for Your Dog

    Make a list and check it twice – here’s what you’ll need to pack when you bring your dog along with you on your vacation!There is nothing more exciting than…
    8 Tips For Boarding a Dog With Separation Anxiety

    Ways to make the experience of staying at a kennel easier for your anxious dog Going into a boarding kennel can be stressful for any dog, but even more so fo…
    Can Dogs Eat Mango?

    If you want to find out can dogs eat mango, if the seed of this tropical fruit is safe for pets, what to expect if your dog eats it and much more, read on!
    Cockapoo

    The oldest of the designer dogs, the Cockapoo is a sweet and loving companion. He is accepting of strangers as well as other new animals, and loves people.
    5 Big Differences Between Cats and Dogs

    Although cats and dogs are the most popular pets, there are some major differences between the two species, and understanding them will prepare you to be a great guardian to your canine or feline companion.
    Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: In Need of a Donation Rescue!

    After being stood up by a rescue, a pair of grieving pet parents doesn''t know what to do with their dearly departed dog''s possessions.
    Best Pet Cameras

    Pet cameras are a great way to be able to keep an eye on your pet when you''re not at home, but also a tool to help you make your cat or dog feel less alone.
    Why Do Dogs Stink When Wet?

    There''s always a distinctive smell coming from your pooch after he gets wet. Have you ever wondered why dogs stink when they get wet?
    Hamiltonstövare

    Developed as a hunting hound in Sweden, the Hamiltonstvare remains a popular scenthound in its homeland, though it''s gaining popularity in the U.S.
    DripModule Serves Up Hip Dishes For Dogs

    Your dog''s dishes do more than hold kibble. They''re a tasty accessory that mirrors your kitchen''s décor, and these funky feeders are a feast for the eyes!
    Yellow-Footed Tortoise

    The Yellow-Footed Tortoise is one of the most popular and beloved tortoise breeds in the pet trade. It is shy, so these animals will not like being handled.