Eastern Brown

Please be aware that snake encounters are becoming more frequent again as the weather starts to warm across many parts of Australia. All snake bites, including suspected bites, should be considered life-threatening. Small animals may be bitten multiple times during a snake encounter, which can result in a greater venom load and increase the risk of severe illness.

The most common envenomation syndrome following snake bite is a venom-induced consumptive coagulopathy (VICC). VICC is frequently seen following bites from brown snakes in Australia, but can also occur with bites from other snake species. It affects the blood’s ability to clot properly and can result in uncontrolled internal bleeding.

Signs of snake bite in pets may include:

🐍 Sudden weakness or collapse, sometimes followed by a temporary improvement

🐍 Vomiting

🐍 Laboured breathing

🐍 Paralysis, which may begin in the hind legs

🐍 Loss of bladder and bowel control

🐍 Muscle shaking or twitching

🐍 Blood in the urine

Snake bites are a time-critical emergency, and immediate veterinary assessment is recommended for all dogs and cats that have been bitten by a snake. Keep your pet as calm and still as possible. Minimise movement, including walking, wherever possible and transport them to the nearest veterinary practice immediately, even if they appear well. If possible, phone the veterinary clinic ahead of arrival to let them know you are on the way. The sooner your pet is treated, the better their chances of survival.

The Animal Poisons Helpline provides expert advice to pet owners and can be reached on: ☎️ 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ) , 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CAN). All consultations include a PDF case report emailed shortly after the call.

If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.