The type of snake (some species of snake are more venomous than others), the amount of venom injected (depends of the size and maturity of the snake) and the site of the snake bite are all contributing factors. Dogs and cats are most often bitten around the head and limbs.
The majority of snakebites occur on the hands, feet and ankles. Rattlesnakes usually avoid humans, but about 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes in the United States each year, with 10 to 15 deaths, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Dogs may develop signs immediately after being bitten and then apparently recover for a variable period of time, usually less than 60 minutes. These signs may be collapse, yelping, drooling, urinating, vomiting, defaecating, trembling or panting – known as pre-paralytic signs.
Symptoms of a snake bite in dogs
A dog may yelp when bitten, and if the bite is on their leg, they may limp. However, in some cases, you may need to search for more subtle signs. Look out for symptoms such as leg weakness, shaking or pacing and general restlessness.
Introduction. Dogs can smell many things. Their sense of smell is so finely tuned that they can smell termites underground, rats hiding in tunnels, and snakes slithering in the bushes.
Because dogs are not instinctually afraid of snakes — and are naturally curious — they need to be trained to avoid them. “Snake breaking creates an aversion to snakes,” Reyna said. “It's better to be proactive and avoid the snakebite in the first place.”
Signs and symptoms of snake bites on dogs
Lethargy. Muscle tremors, shaking and reduced eye blinking. Dilated pupils. Sudden onset of weakness/wobbliness (ataxia)
Signs or symptoms of a snake bite may vary depending on the type of snake, but may include: Puncture marks at the wound. Redness, swelling, bruising, bleeding, or blistering around the bite. Severe pain and tenderness at the site of the bite.
A venomous snake bite will usually leave two clear puncture marks. In contrast, a nonvenomous bite tends to leave two rows of teeth marks. It can be difficult to tell the difference between puncture wounds from venomous and nonvenomous snakes. People should seek medical attention for all snake bites.
Staggering amount of Queenslanders being bitten each year
In data shared with 9news.com.au, Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) revealed more than 800 people have been bitten by snakes in the state each year from 2020-2022.
South Australia
Sand dunes are common breeding grounds for snakes of this region. Most of the venomous tend to be in this area. This is because it receives large amounts of sun but at the same time allows for enough cover for protection.
Snakes are most active at night and during early morning and late evening hours, the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension says. One of the most common species of snakes isn't venomous at all.
It's normal for dogs to pant, especially when they're hot, excited, or energetic. Heavy panting is different, though, and may be a sign your dog is dangerously overheated, coping with a chronic health problem, or has experienced a life-threatening trauma.
In general, gradual onset limps in dogs are caused by an underlying, chronic or degenerative condition, such as osteoarthritis or dysplasia. Sudden onset limps, on the other hand, are usually caused by an injury or trauma. Just because your dog has a gradual limp does not mean you should put off making an appointment.
Snake bites may cause pain and swelling around the site of the bite, or there may be very few signs left on the skin. Symptoms that snake venom has entered your body may include dizziness, blurred vision, breathing difficulties, nausea, muscle weakness or paralysis.
The bite may look like a slight scratch or graze, or some minor swelling - there may be no pain or other symptoms. Even so, always perform first aid and seek treatment. Symptoms of a snakebite can include: Puncture marks (or small, very visible scratches)
Symptoms of snake bite include: nausea or vomiting • headache • abdominal pain • double vision or blurred vision • slurred speech • sore or weak muscles • shortness of breath • bleeding from the bite site, or elsewhere • dark or red urine • pain or swelling at the bite site • sudden collapse or seizure.
What are the symptoms? Local pain, swelling and irritation at the site of a possible bite, including the development of unhealing sores. A focal area of skin which becomes infected or necrotic.
Ammonia Repellent: Snakes have sensitive noses and don't like the smell of ammonia, so spraying it around the perimeter of your property can help keep them away. Epsom Salt: Sprinkling Epsom salt around your home or garden will create a strong odor snakes won't want to come close to.
Snakes usually try to avoid humans, but if a snake gets in their way, it's best to keep your dog away from them. Dogs basically have natural hunting instincts, so when they see snakes, they chase after them.
While it's not entirely conclusive that snakes will stay away from doggos and that doggos can keep them away, it's obvious that, due to a canine's insane sense of smell and hearing, they're the perfect snake hunters. With that in mind, it's easy to conclude that pups might be one of the best bets to keep snakes away.
Australian Terrier
They were developed in Australia, but the ancestors of the Australian Terrier can be traced back to Great Britain. Overall, the breed appears small and harmless. Their temperament, however, is what makes Australian Terriers great guards against slithering reptiles.