The coming of spring and warmer weather often means spending more time in Mother Nature. And, not only are pet owners and their pets ready to get out for some fun and sun, there is also more risk of encountering sun-loving venomous snakes.
Because we live in an area rife with snakes and the potential for an encounter, we want to review the importance of snake awareness and bite prevention, both for pet owners and their four-legged friends.
What to Do If You Encounter a Snake
While the thought of a venomous snake might make your skin crawl, the good news is that most snakes are not aggressive, and will try and avoid you as much as you try and avoid them. In fact, some of the most common reasons for a snake bite occur when the snake feels threatened. This typically happens when a dog is being aggressive or barking or through improper handling of the snake.
If you spot a snake while out with your dog, it is critical to keep him away from the area. Leash walking helps maintain control over dogs that like to chase or bark. If your pet is small, the safest thing to do would be to pick him up and carry him out of the vicinity.
Keep in mind, even if the snake is nonvenomous bites can still occur, so keeping a good distance from any wild animal is the best tactic.
Also, remember the avoidance tips: keep your dog leashed, make noise as you walk (such as by singing, talking, or adding some bells to your dog’s collar), and steer clear of thick weeds, as well as rocky creek beds.
Venomous Snakes: Symptoms That Accompany a Bite
There are times, too, when pets are bitten by a snake without the pet guardian to witness.
Although the symptoms of a venomous snake bite will vary depending on the location of the bite site, the amount of venom released, species of snake, size of the pet, and overall health, many symptoms emerge immediately following the bite and up to 24 hours after.
Here are some signs that typically accompany a snake bite:
- Puncture wounds
- Swelling
- Bleeding
- Licking, biting, or obvious pain in a particular area of the body
- Discoloration of skin
- Vomiting
- Collapse
- Difficulty breathing
If your pet is exhibiting signs of a snake bite, assume it was a venomous snake and have him seen by a veterinarian or emergency clinic right away.
Do not try to extract the venom and keep your pet calm and quiet until you can get assistance.
A Word on Rattlesnakes
Because snake bites can occur anywhere (even in your own backyard), the team at Billings Animal Family Hospital recommends vaccinating your pet against the venomous and commonly spotted rattlesnake.
Dogs, in fact, are twenty times more likely to be bitten by a rattlesnake than people.
The canine rattlesnake vaccine is comprised of the venom components of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, but also protects against the venoms of the Prairie or Western rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis), often encountered in Montana.
If you hunt, hike, or camp with your fur friend, it is advised to vaccinate your pet prior to spending this time outdoors with him.
To learn more about venomous snake bite prevention and the benefits of the vaccine, please schedule an appointment or call for more details.
