BACKGROUND

Every year it is estimated that more than 150,000 dogs are bitten by snakes.

Even a bite from a non-venomous snake can be dangerous, as the risk of infection and trauma is high.

Dogs that are bitten are often curious and may be chasing critters.

WHICH POISONOUS SNAKES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR BITES

Rattlesnakes

Copperheads

Corla snakes

Water Moccasins

PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE

Have your dog snake proofed.

Have your dog vaccinated against rattlesnakes

Have your dog tested (renewed) annually to ensure they still recall the aversion conditioning.

Limit chasing critters, bunnies, etc when in a high risk area.

TREATMENT OF A SNAKE BITE

Every snakebite should be treated as an emergency.

Try and identify the snake as this information may be required by the hospital.

Wash the wound with soup and water.

Immobilize the area and keep it lower than the heart to lesson blooddflow.

IF YOU APPLY A TOURNIQUE KEEP IT LOOSE ENOUGH TO ALLOW BLOODFLOW

ONLY ATTEMPT TO "SUCK" THE VENOM OUT IF MEDICAL CARE IS AN HOUR OR MORE AWAY

Keep your dog calm and relaxed until they reach medical care.