Veterinarians in Geelong, Torquay and the wider Surf Coast have already been dealing with quite a few cases of snake bite and the Spring weather has hardly even begun. Unfortunately, not all of the cases seen have had good outcomes, despite high level veterinary intervention.
With some warmer days forecast coming up, it is imperative that pet owners (of both dogs and cats) know the risk areas to exercise a high degree of caution in, as well as the signs and symptoms of envenomation in your animals.
As always, if you even SUSPECT your pet has come in contact with a snake, seek veterinary attention IMMEDIATELY. In many cases, once an animal is showing symptoms, it can already be too late. If your animal is in the care of a vet who is equipped to deal with snake bite when
they deteriorate, they have the best chance of survival.
Be vigilant:
– when walking near rivers or other water sources
– Around areas of long grass
– Walking trails (as snakes like to sunbake on paths)
– And backyards (near bushes/ amongst plants especially)
Some signs of snakebite in pets:
– weakness or collapsing (can recover briefly and then deteriorate)
– Difficult or laboured breathing
– Drooling or vomiting
– Dilated pupils
– Loss of gag reflex
– Red or dark coloured urine
Again, if you even THINK your pet has had any contact with a snake or been bitten, jump straight in the car and head to your nearest veterinary hospital. It is a good idea to call on the way to A) let staff know to prepare for a possible emergency situation, and B) ensure that there is anti-venom on hand. Torquay Animal House Veterinary Hospital has anti-venom stocked year round for emergencies, as does Geelong Animal Emergency hospital.
As always, you can call Torquay Animal House Vets on: 5261 6486, and Geelong Animal Emergency on: 5222 2139