As the weather starts to warm up and summer gets closer, Australia’s many snakes begin to wake up and emerge from their hibernation. In Australia, Snake season takes place from September to April, and is a time that poses an extra risk to your dogs and cats. According to PetSure, snake bites pose a higher risk to pets than most pet owners expect.
Some of the most venomous snakes in the world can be found in Australia, so understandably, every snake bite should be taken seriously. Action needs to be taken immediately to ensure your pet has the best chance of survival.
What Snakes Pose the Biggest Risk?
The snakes that pose the most significant risk to your pet include the Eastern Brown Snake, the Tiger Snake, and the Red-Bellied Black Snake, due to their potent venom.
What Are the Symptoms of a Snake Bite?
The signs of a snakebite vary depending on the type of snake, the type of venom, the location of the bite, and the amount of venom.
Common signs in dogs include:
- Sudden unconsciousness
- Trembling
- Vomiting
- Salivation
- Unsteadiness
- Dilated pupils
- Paralysis
- Respiratory distress
- Red-brown coloured urine
- Muscle spasms
- Excessive bleeding
Common signs in cats may include:
- Dilated pupils
- Weakness
- Paralysis
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Diarrhea
- Blood in urine
Actions to Take If Your Pet Has Been Bitten
We know it will be your natural instinct to panic if your pet has been bitten by a snake; however, your pet will have a better chance of survival if you remain calm and take immediate action.
- Call your vet: Call ahead to your vet and let them know that a snake has bitten your pet, so they can ensure they have a supply of antivenom on hand and are prepared to go.
- Take your pet to the vet: Take your pet straight to the vet. The sooner they can receive treatment, the better their chances of making a full recovery.
- First aid: Apply basic first aid to your pet by applying a pressure bandage to the bite site and carrying them to slow the spread of venom through their lymphatic system. Do your best to keep them calm.
Important Tips
- Identify the snake: Try to identify the type of snake that has bitten your pet so that the vet can provide the correct antivenom and treatment. If the snake has died, you can take it to the vet with you.
- If the snake is unidentified: If you don’t see the snake or are unable to identify it, your vet may be able to hazard a guess or test your pet to determine the snake.
- Stay away from the snake: This goes without saying, but keep your distance from the snake and also keep any other pets or children away from it. Your safety matters more than identifying the snake.
- Don’ts: DON’T apply a tourniquet or wash the bite site.
- Antivenom kits: If you live far away from a veterinarian, it’s a good idea to have an antivenom kit on hand in case of an emergency. Although this won’t replace a vet’s professional care, it will buy your pet some time.
- Telehealth support services: If you live a long distance from a vet, you can rely on telehealth support services like LiveVet at no extra cost.
Treatments
Your vet may carry out the following treatments:
Antivenom
Your pet will get an immediate dose of antivenom, but may require multiple doses over several visits.
Monitoring
Depending on the severity of the snakebite and the condition of your pet, the veterinarian may keep your pet in for monitoring or even refer them to an animal hospital for more intensive and emergency care.
IV Fluids
Intravenous (IV) fluids will aid in treating your pet by supporting their blood pressure and helping to manage any shock.
Mechanical Ventilation
In more serious cases, a ventilator may be required until your pet can resume breathing on its own.
Snakebites and Insurance
The treatment of snakebites can be quite costly, including the cost of antivenom, tests, and veterinary/animal hospital stays. That is where pet insurance comes to the rescue.
Snakebites are covered under ‘accident coverage’, which includes injuries such as broken bones, burns, and bites from snakes and spiders.
Preventation
Ideally, you will want to avoid snake bites during the warmer months. Here are some ways to prevent snakebites:
- Stay away from grassy, bushy areas: Avoid taking your dogs for walks in long grass or bushy areas during the summer months.
- Keep your backyard clean: Regularly mow your lawn and keep your backyard free of any debris where snakes can hide, so your dogs and cats can play and roam outdoors safely.
- Keep your dog on a leash: Whenever possible, keep your dog on a leash when taking them for a walk. This will prevent them from approaching any snakes.
- Monitor pets: Keep an eye on your pets whenever they are outside.
- Avoid floodwaters: Stay away from floodwaters, as they can attract snakes.
At Potiki, we understand how precious your pets are. We also know that the unexpected can happen at any time, resulting in extremely high vet fees. These unforeseen circumstances are why it is best to be prepared with pet insurance. Potiki offer our customers flexible covers with excess and extras to give you and your family peace of mind. Visit our website to obtain a quick quote and explore our various coverage options.
FAQs
What if I Suspect My Pet Has Been Bitten, But I Don’t Witness It?
Even if you don’t witness your pet get bitten, but you notice some signs, it’s still crucial to take them to the vet for immediate assistance. Your vet will be able to run the necessary tests to diagnose them properly.
It is always better to be safe than sorry.
Does My Pet Have a Good Chance of Survival?
It all depends on the type of snake, the age and condition of your pet and how quickly you can get them to the vet for treatment.
Your pet’s vet will do everything in their power to save your pet.
How Much Does Treatment for a Snakebite Cost?
According to data from PetSure, treatment for a snakebite can be pretty costly, potentially costing thousands of dollars.