Snake Bite Symptoms and Safety for Dogs

Australia isn’t exactly known for its harmless wildlife, and snakes are a real risk – especially for curious dogs.

While snakes are more active in the warmer months, encounters can happen year-round, even in your own backyard.

If your dog gets bitten, it’s always a medical emergency that requires quick action and professional treatment to ensure the best chance of recovery.

Knowing what to do in this situation can make all the difference, whether you’re camping, hiking, or just out for a walk.

What to do if your dog has been bitten by a snake

The faster your dog receives treatment, the higher their chances of survival. Follow these steps if your dog has been bitten by a snake:

1. Seek immediate veterinary attention

Call your nearest vet clinic to check if they have anti-venom. If they don’t, they will redirect you to a clinic that does. Anti-venom works best when your dog receives it immediately, but it is still effective up to hours after a bite.

2. Keep your dog calm and still

Reducing their movement will slow the spread of the venom. If you can, carry your dog rather than letting them walk.

3. Apply a pressure bandage

If your dog has been bitten anywhere other than their head, use a bandage (or even a piece of clothing) to slow venom movement. The bandage should be firm, but not so tight as to cut circulation.

4. Identify the snake (if safe to do so)

If you can get a photo of the snake from a safe distance, this can help vets determine the right anti-venom to use. (Never put yourself in a situation that puts you at risk of being bitten – do not try to catch the snake!)

Did you know:

About 80% of dogs bitten by venomous snakes recover completely if treatment is initiated quickly.

How long does it take for snake venom to affect a dog?

Snake bite symptoms may appear anywhere from minutes to 24 hours after a bite, depending on factors like the type of snake, bite location and your dog’s size.

Some dogs collapse immediately but then seem to recover temporarily before deteriorating – so even if your dog appears fine, seek vet care urgently.

How to tell if your dog has been bitten by a snake

Signs and symptoms that your dog has been bitten can include:

• Puncture wounds with redness and bleeding
• Weakness in the hind legs
• Collapsing, or reluctance to move
• Shaking or twitching, or loss of coordination
• Dilated pupils
• Vomiting
• Blood in the urine

The severity of symptoms can depend on the species of snake, the maturity of the snake, the location of the bite and how quickly treatment is given.

Did you know:

Dogs are more likely to be bitten on the face or legs, as they tend to investigate snakes out of curiosity.

How to prevent snake bites in dogs

To prevent snake bites in dogs, you should take proactive measures to minimise their risk of encountering a snake.

1. Avoid high-risk areas

Keep your dog on a leash or harness when walking in bushland or around long grass – don’t let them wander off trail. And monitor them closely if you’re in areas where snakes may be present.

2. Train your dog to avoid snakes

Snake avoidance training can teach dogs to recognise and steer clear of snakes. This can be especially useful if you live in a more rural or high-risk area.

3. Keep your yard snake-proof

Snakes love long grass, places to hide, and their favourite foods such as rats or mice. So, make sure to keep your grass short and your garden tidy. Seal off any gaps where snakes can hide, like holes or near large rocks. And remove any potential food sources by keeping pet food indoors, securing rubbish bins, and addressing any rodent infestations quickly.

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