As the weather starts to get warm, the chance of running into snakes also rises. Snakes are cold blooded creatures and generally hibernate in cooler months. As the temperatures start to approach the 80’s, snakes become active and start hunting for prey. Most venomous snakes frequent tall grasses, bushes, and woodpiles, though water moccasins can be found closer to the water.
While there is a rattlesnake vaccine available for dogs, it is still recommended to have all dogs evaluated by a veterinarian following possible snake envenomation. Health insurance would be a good idea to help with costs in endemic regions as antivenin can be very expensive.

There are two types of venomous snakes found in Texas according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. First, pit vipers are the most common type and include the copperhead, the cottonmouth, and the rattlesnake. Pit vipers get their name from the infrared radiation receptors on either side of their head. The second type of venomous snake is the coral snake. This type of snake can be easily identified by the red, yellow, and black color bands along the snake’s body. The Texas Coral Snake is the only snake in Texas with touching yellow and red bands.

The snake generally uses its venom to immobilize its prey and predigest body tissues. A snake’s venom contains at least 10 types of enzymes to break down tissue. When the snake venom destroys the tissues, it can cause decreased blood pressure and shock. There can also be seeping of fluid around the site of envenomation.

Approximately 80% of pets survive a snake bite if treated quickly, so a prompt response is essential. It may not be possible to always see when your pet is bitten by a snake, but the following symptoms are often seen, severity often depends on the type of snake as well as the size of the pet:

  • Swelling around the area of the bite
  • Snakes most commonly bite dogs in the face, neck, or legs
  • Bruising and skin discoloration
  • Sudden collapse
  • Muscle tremors
  • Shallow breathing
  • Diarrhea and vomiting
  • Excessive salivation and drooling
  • Weakness in hind legs
  • Possible seizures
  • Bloody urine
  • Dilated pupils
  • Paralysis

What to Do Following a Snake Bite:

  • Move the victim away from the snake. If you can safely take a picture with your phone do so, but do not put yourself in harm’s way.
  • Head to your local emergency room veterinarian immediately. Assume all bites are venomous for safety. Most general veterinary practices do not carry antivenom so heading to the ER is generally a better choice. Anaphylactic reactions to snake bites generally occur 15-30 minutes following a snake bite and can include facial swelling, edema, respiratory difficulty, vomiting, diarrhea, and coagulation (clotting) concerns. For this reason, quick and immediate medical care is recommended.
  • Keep your pet calm.
  • Avoid touching the area directly as it can often be very painful at the site of the wound.
  • Lift the bitten limb so that it is at or below the level of the heart as this can slow distribution of the venom.
  • Gently wash with warm soap and water if possible.
  • Restrict activity and head immediately to the emergency room with your pet.

What Not to Do Following a Snake Bite:

  • Do not attempt to suck venom from the bite wound.
  • Do not make cuts over the snake bite.
  • Do not apply a tourniquet.
  • Do not apply ice or a cold pack.
  • Do not rub any creams into region.
  • Do not attempt to capture the snake.
  • If possible, carry your dog to restrict activity.
  • Do not give any medication prior to seeing the veterinarian.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Snake Bite:

  • Blood Smear/Coagulation Testing
  • Full bloodwork
  • Possible antivenin (dependent on time of bite, type of snake, and clinical signs)
  • Steroids/NSAIDs for pain
  • Antibiotic therapy
  • Fluid therapy
  • Possible need for transfusion if clotting factors are of concern.
  • Hospitalization and monitoring for 12-24 hours following examination.

Avoiding Snake Bites:

  • Always keep pet on leash.
  • When hiking, stay on the paths.
  • Avoid tall grasses.
  • Avoid taking pet out when visibility is low.

The best way to prevent a snake bite is avoidance, but the prognosis is much more favorable when the proper protocols are followed. If you are concerned that your pet is suffering from a snake bite, it is always safer to err on the side of caution.

If your pet has been bitten by a snake, immediately take your pet to an emergency clinic. A timely response can save your pet’s life.