Snake Bite

How to avoid snake bites:
Know that you are entering their territory- be aware.
Stay on the trail and avoid big rocks or dense grass
Keep your pet on a short leash
Condition your dog to come to you when it sees a snake.
What symptoms to look for:
Swelling on the head, neck, and occasionally front legs.
A set of paired puncture wounds are sometimes visible.

Our Approach

What to do if your dog may have been bitten by a snake.

Seek veterinary help immediately.

If your dog was bitten by a venomous snake, the sooner medical treatment is started, the more likely for a positive outcome. EVS is the quickest access animal hospital from the Foothills.

Stay Positive

With fast and appropriate action, your dog has a good chance of recovery.

Try to Identify the Snake.

DO NOT try to catch the snake- take a photo if possible to help ID the snake later.
DO NOT bring the snake with you
DO NOT try to suck out the venom
DO NOT apply a tourniquet, pressure bandage or ice.
DO NOT cut the skin where the bite occurred.

How Snake Bites Are Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the bite and the species involved. Veterinary care may include:

Pain management
IV fluids
Antivenom
Oxygen therapy
Blood clotting monitoring
Antibiotics if needed
Hospitalization and supportive care

Many pets recover fully with prompt treatment.

therapy, antivenin, and pain medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

When To Call the Veterinary Hospital

Snake bites should always be treated as an emergency

Call immediately if your pet:

Has sudden swelling after outdoor activity
Collapses or becomes weak
Shows signs of pain after encountering wildlife
Has trouble breathing
Is suspected to have been bitten by a snake