The local veterinarian’s office is seeing a higher than usual number of snake bites this summer.
Hobson Fulmer said he has seen 4 cases of dogs being bit by poisonous snakes over the past few months, more than he’s ever seen over such a short time period.
Two of the bites were from pygmy rattlesnakes and one from a diamondback.
The vet’s office does have antivenin to treat snake bites, but the vet recommends keeping a close eye on your animals so they don’t wind up getting bit in the first place.
Keep your dog on a leash and away from high grass and out of the woods.
If your dog does get bit – you will recognize the symptoms.
There will be puncture wounds and probably some bleeding.
Your animal will be in severe pain and you will likely see swelling and possibly dying or decaying tissue around the bite.
Untreated, the snake bite will lead to hypotension and shock, lethargy and weakness, and even muscle tremors.
Antivenin is most effective if its used quickly, so the sooner you can get your dog to the vet the higher the chances of survival.
If you don’t have quick access to medical treatment, then do what you can to keep your pet calm, Keep your pets activity to a minimum, and try to get the animal to drink as much fluid as possible until you can get to the vets office.
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