If you live in a warmer climate (i. e. , California, the Southwest, or the Southeast), you are likely aware of the need to watch out for snakes when hiking. The reason being that you are on their territory (just as surfers must be cautious of sharks when riding the waves). Â.
Snake bites on dogs (and people) are an emergency situation. To stop the venom from spreading, you should see a veterinarian right away. Learn more about your dog’s reaction to venom, how to treat a snake bite, and how to avoid having your dog bitten by a snake in the future by reading on.
The victim is rendered immobile by the venom of that slithery snake (e g. , your poor, unassuming pup) and predigest body tissues. And yes, thatâs as creepy and dangerous as it sounds. Â.
At least ten different types of tissue-degrading enzymes are present in a snake’s venom. In addition, the venom contains a variety of additional non-enzymes known as killing fractions that are 50 times more toxic than the “crude” venom. Up to a third of a dog’s body fluid may be lost into the tissue spaces when the snake venom attacks the body tissues, which can cause life-threatening drops in blood pressure and put your dog into shock.
How to Treat a Snake Bite on a Dog
In the event that a snake bite is treated quickly, about 80% of animals will recover. This entails identifying the initial signs of a snake bite and seeking medical attention right away.
Although the intensity of snake bite symptoms will depend on the factors listed above, watch out to see if your dog is exhibiting any of these signs:
Evidence of bite wounds and pain/swelling around the bite site are two additional crucial symptoms to look for when determining how to treat a snake bite on a dog. When a dog tries to catch a snake, snakes frequently bite the dog in the face, neck, or legs. The most reliable way to know whether your pet was bitten or not isn’t always when there is significant pain and swelling; instead, you should keep an eye out for the other symptoms.
What Happens at the Veterinary Clinic When Treating a Snake Bite?
Antivenom may be administered when you arrive at the clinic depending on the veterinarian’s evaluation of the severity, the outcomes of the blood tests, and the suspected type of snake. Given that rattlesnake bites are frequent in our region, it is frequently the first line of treatment in Colorado.
Although antivenom is frequently given, it is typically advised to hospitalize your pet for additional support care. If your pet needs treatment, they will typically need to stay in the hospital for at least 24 hours, but it may be longer. Your pet will require one to two weeks of rest after being released from the hospital.
What are the symptoms and signs of dog snake bites?
Take your dog to the emergency vet right away if they notice any of the symptoms or signs listed below.
After being bitten by a brown snake, Bella, an Underwood patient of Animal Emergency Service, is almost completely paralyzed.
Uncommon signs of snake bites in dogs include an instant collapse followed by a seeming recovery and return to normalcy. The dog has received a fatal dose of the venom if this occurs. Read our blog post titled What are the symptoms and signs of snake bites on dogs for more details on these signs and others.
FAQ
How long can a dog live after snake bite?
Bull snake, garden snake, or racer snake bites could result in infection and are painful, but they are not fatal. However, if your dog should encounter a venomous snake {ie. If a dog is bitten by a copperhead, rattlesnake, or water moccasin, the venom could kill it in an hour unless you administer first aid right away.
What happens to a dog after a snake bite?
A swollen muzzle is a warning sign that often appears within 30 minutes of a bite. Fangs can leave two puncture wounds that may ooze red or reddish liquid. Swelling is also typical, and given enough time, local discoloration might happen.
How do I know if my dog has a snake bite?
- Sudden weakness and collapse, followed by your. pet getting up normally.
- Trembling, shaking or twitching of muscles.
- Diarrhea and/or vomiting.
- Unsteadiness/weakness in hind legs.
- Excessive salivation, drooling or frothing at the mouth.
- Bloody urine.
- Dilated pupils.
- Paralysis.
Can a dog survive a snake bite without treatment?
Dogs bitten by non-venomous snakes may be fine with only supportive care, so the question of whether they can survive a snake bite without treatment is raised. These bites typically cause swelling and bruising. Keep an eye on your dog because they can get sick.