Snake encounters become more likely during Australia’s warmer months, when snakes are more active. Curious dogs may investigate, chase or try to grab a snake. In South East Queensland, highly venomous eastern brown snakes occur in and around Brisbane and are regularly found in suburban areas.
A bite can be difficult to confirm at home. Fang marks may be tiny, hidden by fur or absent from view, and there may be little swelling. Never assume your dog is safe because you cannot find a wound.
Warning signs that need immediate attention
Signs vary with the snake, the amount of venom and the individual dog. Possible signs include:
- sudden collapse, sometimes followed by an apparent recovery
- weakness, wobbliness or difficulty standing
- trembling, shaking or muscle twitches
- dilated pupils or reduced blinking
- vomiting, drooling, panting or restlessness
- loss of bladder or bowel control
- paralysis or difficulty breathing
- bleeding from the nose, mouth or a suspected bite site
- dark or bloody-looking urine
A brief recovery after collapse is not reassuring. Australian emergency veterinarians identify this pattern as an important snake-bite warning. Some dogs may also appear normal for hours before deteriorating.
What to do immediately
- Call a vet while you are leaving. Tell them that a snake bite is suspected so they can prepare or direct you to an emergency hospital.
- Keep your dog calm and still. Excitement and movement can help venom move through the lymphatic system.
- Carry your dog to the car if you can do so safely. Do not let them walk unnecessarily. For a larger dog, use a blanket as a stretcher with another person if available.
- Go straight to veterinary care. Do not wait to see whether symptoms develop or improve.
- Only observe the snake from a safe distance. If it can be done without delaying departure or approaching the snake, note its colour and markings or take a distant photo. Identification is the veterinarian’s job.
What not to do
- Do not attempt to catch, corner or kill the snake.
- Do not waste time searching the yard for it.
- Do not cut or suck the bite site.
- Do not wash or clean a suspected bite site.
- Do not apply a tourniquet or anything that cuts off circulation.
- Do not give food, medication or home remedies unless a veterinarian directs you.
A pressure-immobilisation bandage may sometimes be advised, but it must not restrict blood flow and is not practical for every bite location. Call the veterinarian for instructions rather than delaying transport to find or apply a bandage.
Why eastern brown snake bites are especially urgent
Eastern brown snakes are highly venomous. Their venom can interfere with blood clotting and may also cause neurological problems, collapse, paralysis and breathing difficulty. The outcome can depend on the amount of venom and how quickly veterinary treatment begins. Antivenom and intensive supportive care cannot be provided at home.
Reduce the risk around home and on walks
- Keep grass short and remove piles of timber, rubble and dense ground-level clutter.
- Control rodents and keep pet food securely stored.
- Supervise dogs outside during warmer months, particularly near long grass, rocks, waterways and bushland edges.
- Use a lead on bush tracks and do not allow dogs to investigate holes or move under rocks.
- Keep dogs away from snakes even when the snake appears dead.
- Save the number and address of your nearest daytime vet and after-hours emergency hospital in your phone.
- If a snake is in your yard, keep people and pets inside and contact a licensed snake catcher.
This guide provides general information and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. A suspected snake bite always requires immediate professional assessment.