What to Do if your Dog Gets Bitten by a Snake

Snake bites are not uncommon in dogs. Since dogs spend much of their time outside, often venturing into old sheds or peering under bushes, they are prone to accidental run-ins with snakes of all kinds. According to Drs. Foster and Smith, the majority of serious snake bites in dogs are caused by pit vipers, such as rattlesnakes, copperheads, and water moccasins. The head and neck are the most commonly bitten areas, since dogs may incite the snake bite by attempting to grab or bite the animal.

Dog owners may be inclined to take a wait-and-see approach to determine whether the snake was venomous or not, but this can be dangerous. Not only could it lead to lost time if the snake did inject your dog with venom, but a bite from a nonvenomous snake still warrants a vet visit to prevent infection. No matter what kind of snake bit your dog, it's important to do what it takes to keep your dog safe and healthy. If you know or suspect that your dog has been bitten by a snake, here's what you need to do.

1. Stay calm and keep your dog calm. Provide your dog with comfort and reassurance, especially if he appears to be panicked or in pain. If your dog moves or becomes excited, it will make his heart beat faster-- thus making the venom spread more rapidly into his body. If there is anyone in close proximity who can drive you to the vet, contact them immediately so you can keep your dog calm and comfortable while in transit to the vet's office.

2. Restrain your dog. This slows circulation to the site of the wound, making any venom slower to spread. If your dog's paw is injured, for example, you might hold it up above his body (taking care, of course, to avoid causing additional pain). Foster and Smith recommend loosely immobilizing the site of the bite, as well, to reduce circulation. If you create one without losing time, a makeshift splint or restraint can minimize your pet's movements. If possible, have someone sit with your dog while in transit to the vet's office to maintain the restraint and elevation.

3. Call your veterinarian. If possible, call your dog's vet to let her know you're on your way. If they are expecting you, they are more likely to be able to treat your pet quickly. They may recommend that you go to the nearest animal hospital for emergency treatment. Be prepared for the likely possibility that your dog will need to stay at the vet's office or animal hospital for some time, since he will need frequent observation to watch for the signs of toxin-induced kidney failure.

4. Don't attempt to treat it yourself. Home treatments for snake bites, such as tying off the bite, applying ice, and sucking out venom, are often ineffective-- and, when carried out by someone who isn't a professional, any snake bite treatment can do more harm than good. It also wastes precious time that you could be spending to get to the vet.

5. Remember your own safety. Never, ever attempt to find or kill the snake that bit your dog. You could very well end up in the same predicament as your dog-- and the snake's body will do no good in helping your dog get good treatment. Most vets don't carry species-specific antivenin, so identification isn't terribly important. Even a snake that appears to be dead could attack and poison you.

With prompt medical care, your dog's chances of surviving a snake bite are good, especially if the snake was non-venomous. It's important for dog-owners to immediately and knowledgeably react to these injuries to minimize risks to the dog's health and maximize his chances of a full recovery.