Veterinary Care for Animals Planning Overseas Journeys

Veterinary Care for Animals Planning Overseas Journeys

Protect Your Pets: What To Do If Your Pet Is Bitten By A Snake

by Sophie Knight

If you have pets, and they spend any time outdoors, you need to be concerned about snake bites. You might think that snakes aren't an issue since the temperatures are dropping, but that's not the case. In fact, snakes are more likely to be active between the months of October through April. That's when temperatures are at their warmest in Australia. If your pet does get bitten by a snake, you need to take action as quickly as possible. Here are four steps you need to take if your pet has been bitten by a snake. 

Keep Your Pet Still

If your pet has been bitten by a snake, it's important to keep them as still as possible. This is especially important if you suspect that the snake was venomous. Allowing your pet to thrash about can increase the spread of venom through the body. To avoid that, try to hold your pet as still as possible. It's also important for you to remain calm. That way, you can provide your pet with the care it needs. 

Stop the Spread of the Venom

If your pet has suffered a snake bite, it's important that you stop the venom from spreading. To do that, you need to locate the actual bite. Once you've located the wound, you want to apply pressure to both sides of the bite marks. This will help to slow the flow of venom. If needed, carefully cut the hair from around the bite. That way, you have access to apply the pressure bandage. 

Protect Their Air Passages

If your pet is bitten by a snake, you need to protect their air passages. Snake bites can cause severe swelling, especially when venomous snakes are involved. Unfortunately, the swelling can include your pet's neck and throat. To help keep air passages open, be sure to remove your pets collar or harness as quickly as possible. For maximum protection, leave the collar off until your pet receives medical attention. 

Seek Prompt Vet Care

Finally, if your pet sustains a snake bite during their outdoor adventures this year, be sure to seek prompt care from a vet center. The vet will be able to identify the type of bite that your pet has sustained. If necessary, the vet can also provide your pet with the appropriate anti-venom treatment. 

Don't take chances where your pets are concerned. If your pet is bitten by a snake, use the information described here to provide immediate care.


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About Me

Veterinary Care for Animals Planning Overseas Journeys

When you have a dog or a cat, they become a treasured part of the family, and you don't want to leave them at any cost. This is true even if you move or travel abroad. Hi, my name is Katie, and I traveled with my dog for nearly 10 years before his passing one year ago. I loved every moment we had together, but I also learned a lot of important things about the type of veterinary care travelling animals need. If you want to learn about veterinary care or tips for travelling animals or just in general, I invite you to explore my blog.

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