With the warm weather creeping in, so are the slithery locals. That’s right — snakes are stretching out, soaking up the sun, and sometimes sneaking a little too close to our curious canines. They might be fascinating (from very far away), but a snake encounter can go from “what’s that?” to full-blown emergency before you’ve even unwrapped your dog’s next treat.
If your pup ever has a run-in with a snake, here’s what to look for and exactly what to do.
Spotting a Snake Bite
Snake bites aren’t always easy to spot, especially if your dog was off sniffing the bushes while it happened. Keep an eye out for:
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Sudden limping or weakness
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Swelling or bleeding at the bite site
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Drooling or difficulty swallowing
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Rapid breathing or collapse
- Odd behaviour like shaking or vomiting
If your dog shows any of these signs, especially after time outdoors, it’s time to act fast.
What To Do If Your Dog Gets Bitten
1. Stay Calm (Even If Your Heart’s Racing)
Easier said than done, we know. But keeping your cool helps your dog stay calm too — which is crucial for slowing the spread of venom.
2. Call Your Vet or Emergency Vet Immediately.
Time is critical. Tell the vet you suspect a snake bite and follow their advice right away. Don’t wait and see — snake venom works fast.
3. Restrict Movement.
Limit your pup’s activity as much as possible, to reduce circulation and the venom’s distribution. If you can, gently carry your dog or use a leash to limit excessive walking.
4. Keep the Bite Area Below Heart Level.
This helps slow the venom travelling through the bloodstream.
5. Avoid Tourniquets or Cutting the Wound.
Old myths say to suck out venom or tie a tourniquet — don’t do these. They can cause more harm than good.
Getting to the Vet
Your new mission: get to the vet, calmly and quickly. Most clinics stock antivenom and are well-versed in treating snake bites.
Prevention Is the Best Medicine
We get it — you can’t bubble-wrap your dog or ban snakes from the neighbourhood. But there are ways to lower the risk:
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🌾 Keep your yard neat and tidy. Long grass and leaf piles are VIP lounges for snakes.
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🌄 Skip the bushwalks at dawn and dusk when snakes are most active.
- 🥾 Live in a snake hotspot? Look into snake avoidance training or protective boots for your dog. It’s a thing. And it works.
Stay Prepared, Stay Safe
Snake bites are scary, but you’re not helpless. Knowing the signs, acting fast, and staying prepared can make all the difference. Your pup’s safety is in your hands — and while it’s hard to think about, being prepared is one of the kindest things you can do for your best mate.