Dogs and Snakes: A Guide by Urban Reptile Removal.
The owners of this beautiful Labrador were determined to make sure the snake was removed from the yard.
Protecting Dogs from Snake Bite: A Guide for Dog Owners
As snake and reptile relocation experts in Sydney, we frequently help homeowners who’ve found snakes on their property. A common concern in these conversations is how dogs and snakes interact, as these encounters can sometimes lead to dangerous situations.
“My dog was attacked by a snake!”—actually, it’s very unlikely that a snake would actively attack a dog. From the snake’s perspective, there’s no reason to start a confrontation. Dogs are too large to be eaten, and snakes just don’t need the drama.
“It was huge! The snake was over 2 meters long!”—while a snake’s length might seem intimidating, it’s their height that matters in an encounter. Even the largest snake is much shorter than the smallest dog, and to a snake, both dogs and people appear large and threatening.
Snakes don’t have claws, fists, or feet, so their only means of defence is biting. They aren’t aware that their bite can be deadly; they’re simply reacting to a perceived threat in the only way they can.
Many dog breeds, like Jack Russells or Fox Terriers, are instinctively driven to chase animals like snakes and lizards. Unfortunately, when dogs lead with their face, bites often occur on sensitive areas like the gums, tongue, or inside the mouth, where venom spreads faster than if they were bitten on their paws or hands, as often happens with humans. The snake isn’t interested in engaging with the dog, and bites are less likely if the snake has a chance to escape.
Understanding the Risk
It's more common than most people realise for dogs in the Sydney area to suffer from snakebites, often fatal. For example, a tragic incident in Middle Dural saw three Jack Russells attack a Red-Bellied Black Snake, resulting in the death of all three dogs… and the snake. It's crucial to note that often, these encounters are initiated by the dog, not the snake. Dogs, driven by curiosity or territorial instincts, may approach or attack a snake, leading the reptile to defend itself.
Preventive Measures to Safeguard Your Dog
1. Leash and Supervision:
Always leash your dog in unfamiliar territories, especially in bushy or grassy areas where snakes may hide.
2. Obedience Training:
A well-trained dog is more likely to avoid snakes and respond to commands. This training can be lifesaving.
3. Yard Maintenance:
Minimise snake attractions in your yard by keeping it tidy and trimming foliage. Remove potential hiding spots like piles of wood or debris.
Immediate Steps If Your Dog Encounters a Snake
Should your dog encounter a snake, it's essential to act quickly:
Keep Your Dog Away:
Prioritise distancing your pet from the snake. Use a leash or call them back if off-leash.
Seek Professional Help:
Do not attempt to capture or kill the snake yourself. Instead, call a professional snake catcher.
In Case of a Bite:
Rush your dog to the nearest vet immediately. Keep your dog as still as possible to slow the spread of venom. Avoid washing or cutting the bite area.
Recognising the Signs of a Snake Bite
Snake bites can cause subtle symptoms that may worsen rapidly. If you notice any change in your dog’s normal behaviour, go to the vet immediately and inform them you're coming in with a potential snake bite.Be alert for signs such as:
Sudden weakness or collapse
Shaking or trembling
Hind leg weakness
Vomiting or diarrhea
Bloody urine
Excessive salivation
Paralysis
Dilated pupils
Foaming at the mouth
Immediate veterinary care is crucial, even if symptoms are delayed.
A five-year-old German Shepherd from Western Sydney was taken to the vet twice before they shaved his underside and discovered the full extent of the damage caused by snake venom. He had been given pain relief during previous visits. By the time the damage was revealed, he was suffering from organ failure, and the owners were advised that euthanasia was the most humane option. Snake venom was confirmed post-mortem.
What to Expect at the Vet
Veterinarians treat snake bites as emergencies. Upon arrival, they may shave the bitten area to inspect the wound and perform tests. Treatment often includes antivenom, intravenous fluids, and sometimes additional support like oxygen or antibiotics. The sooner your dog receives treatment, the better the chances of recovery.
Recovery and Post-Care
Quick action is vital for a successful recovery. However, veterinary treatment can be costly, so consider pet insurance to cover potential expenses.
Conclusion
Preventing snake bites requires vigilance and preparedness. By understanding the risks, training your dog, maintaining your yard, and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can help keep your canine companion safe from these potentially deadly encounters.
For more advice or assistance with snake encounters, contact Chris Williams at Urban Reptile Removal on 0418 633 474.
Flooding the cavity under a concrete slab is often an effective way to remove the snake. In this instance the whole process took several hours and the snake was able to be relocated well away from humans and Labradors.
Final Advice for Pet Owners
Urban Reptile Removal emphasises the importance of training your pet for their safety. If you encounter a snake, don't hesitate to call us for safe reptile relocation services in Sydney. Remember, never attempt to deal with a snake by yourself.
