According to recent research published in Toxicon, companion dogs bitten by venomous snakes have a higher survival rate than expected. Out of 95 dogs bitten by highly poisonous pit vipers, only five did not survive.
The study’s authors, including Taylor Bassett from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, assert that “most dogs will survive if treated promptly and appropriately with adequate amounts of intravenous fluids and antivenom adjusted to the severity of their clinical presentation.”
The study was carried out in northern Florida, home to several hazardous American pit vipers, such as the dusky pygmy rattlesnake, water moccasin, eastern diamondback, and timber rattlesnakes.
Pit vipers release a potent venom that combines elements that are hemotoxic, vasculotoxic, myotoxic, and neurotoxic. In addition to vomiting, diarrhoea, and organ damage, venomation can induce a wide range of symptoms, including tissue damage, abnormalities of the blood clotting system, fast heartbeat, and central nervous system dysfunction.
The secret to survival is to get your dog to a vet clinic or hospital as soon as possible, and to make sure the right dosage of antivenom is given.
The supplied dose of antivenom is occasionally restricted due to financial limitations, as stated by the researchers. “In some cases, persistent or recurrent envenomation and inadequate dosage may cause the signs to initially decrease and then reappear later.”
The bulk of envenomations that the researchers were able to record happened between March and October, when it was warmer outside. Therefore, during the summer months when snakes are most active, pet owners in the Southeast of the United States should be mindful of the increased risk of snakebite. Dog owners should evaluate and keep an eye on the dangers associated with their local environs, as this tendency might not hold true in other parts of the nation.
Here are seven additional suggestions for pet owners to help reduce their animals’ risk of snakebite, along with guidance on what to do in the event that your dog gets bitten by a snake.
Maintain a neat and tidy yard. Cluttered spaces provide snakes with hiding places and opportunities to look for food. Keeping your yard well-manicured will lessen the likelihood that snakes may decide to make their home close to your house. Mow the lawn frequently, and get rid of any trash such as wood chips and leaf piles.
When your dog is outdoors, keep an eye on them. Always keep an eye on your dog, whether you’re walking them or letting them play outside. Keep your dog from wandering off into rocky or densely undergrown areas, as these are popular places for snake sightings. Keep to well-traveled routes and exercise caution in the early morning and late evening, when snake behavior is most active.
Learn about the species of snakes that live in your area. By being aware of the common venomous snakes in your area, you can take preventative measures. Learn how these snakes look and behave so that you can recognize them if you come across one. Resources and information on local snake species are frequently available from veterinary clinics and local wildlife authorities.
Enroll your dog in training to avoid snakes. Some trainers provide dogs with snake avoidance training in areas where venomous snakes are particularly prevalent. Your dog may learn to identify and stay away from snakes thanks to this training, possibly averting a potentially harmful encounter. The majority of training techniques use live snakes that are securely secured.
Identify the symptoms of a snakebite. When a snakebite is promptly identified and treated, it can save lives. Dogs who have been bitten by a snake may exhibit extreme swelling, bleeding puncture wounds, pain, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and behavioral or respiratory abnormalities.
Remedies for snakebite at home don’t work. Home treatments for snakebite are dangerous and ineffectual. Unless a veterinarian recommends it, never try any therapies including cutting, tourniquets, venom extraction, freezing, burning, shocking, or giving antihistamines or other drugs. It has been established by science that these techniques are ineffectual and could even be harmful.
Deliver veterinary treatment quickly. See a vet right away if you think your dog may have been bitten by a snake. The only known cure for snakebite envenomation is antivenom, which can only be given at a veterinary clinic. In cases of serious bites, the sooner antivenom is applied, the better. Take off your dog’s collar after a snakebite if swelling develops around the neck to avoid breathing problems. Take a picture of the snake if you can to aid in identification and help choose the best course of action. But avoid trying to kill or catch the snake, as this can result in more bites. Transport your dog to the closest veterinarian clinic while keeping them as calm and restrained as possible.
Not every snakebite results in envenomation, therefore your veterinarian will observe your dog to see if antivenom is required. It won’t be required in a lot of circumstances.
You may considerably lower your pet’s risk of getting bitten by a snake and safeguard their safety and well-being by following these safety measures and remaining educated.
