Dogs are common snake bite victims because they are natural snake killers and, being companion animals, are often under close observation. Therefore, they may be seen with snakes and the signs of envenomation noticed relatively early. However, in only about 30 per cent of cases can the bite site be found and there is usually little swelling in the area involved. Sometimes the bite site is found because it is bleeding.

What are the signs of snake bite in dogs?

The main early signs in dogs in decreasing frequency are:

It should be noted that following a snake bite, the signs vary greatly depending on the dose of venom received. Dogs receiving low doses of snake venom may only show enlarged pupils and avoid bright sunlight for several days. Dogs receiving larger doses of venom may show drooling and vomiting within 2 hours, have enlarged pupils by 4 hours and develop muscle paralysis later. Dogs receiving massive doses of venom, as from multiple bites, may begin vomiting in 5-30 minutes, be paralysed and have enlarged pupils in 2-4 hours, and can die 2-5 hours after being bitten.

Dogs bitten by a tiger snake can have significant muscle damage even with low levels of venom and no signs of muscle weakness, and take days to recuperate, so any dog bitten by a tiger snake should receive antivenom.

General information about snakebite in animals, including survival rates, can be found on the Snakes page.

 

 

 

 

 

Contributed by R. Brooks. Last updated: October 2007