This glorious warm weather also brings some not some desirable guests to our backyards, snakes!
It is a natural reaction for our domesticated pets to sniff out new visitors in the yard and unfortunately those inquisitive faces often become the quick target for snake bites.
Be vigilant and understand the signs of a snake bite in cats and dogs:
- Sudden weakness followed by collapse
- Bleeding puncture wound
- Swelling in the bitten area
- Pain and discomfort
- Neurological signs such as twitching, drooling and shaking
- Vomiting
- Loss of bladder and bowel control
- Dilated pupils
- Paralysis
If you think your animal has been bitten contact a vet immediately. The chances of recovery are much greater if treatment is delivered early.
If you can't get veterinary attention immediately, applying a pressure bandage over and around the bite site can help slow the venom spreading to the heart, and try to keep your pet as calm as possible.
