Craig Robert Young undergoes a harrowing episode with a beloved canine companion
Our title this week is not that original but like most clichés it’s based on a hard truth. However, it’s not just the sneaky two-legged Hollywood types who we are addressing this week, but rather the actual slithery species.
It’s a real anomaly for us Brits to fathom that we may encounter a rattlesnake or two while aimlessly hiking in the picturesque landscape of the Hollywood Hills, which attracts not only humans but also a diverse range of wildlife, including snakes. As dog owners, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks these reptiles pose to our beloved four-legged companions. I learned the hard way recently, whilst out walking my two inquisitive dogs, Bonnie and Coco. Unfortunately Bonnie stuck her inquisitive nose into the wrong bush and voila! Damage done. We didn’t notice at first as she didn’t yelp, but when back at the house she was disinterested in her food, which is definitely out of the ordinary! On closer inspection I noticed she was very forlorn and that her cheek had puffed out slightly and a spot of blood also was visible – that’s when I knew she had been bitten or stung by something… a wasp perhaps? Honestly I had been told that dogs don’t react so bad to snake bites and thought I could just keep an eye on her – big mistake! Luckily my husband didn’t take any chances and called the animal hospital – they told us to bring her in right away! Thank goodness we did as in fact a snake bite can be lethal and we may have lost her – so I thought I could share my learnings with all you pet owners and provide essential guidelines on what to do in case of such an unfortunate encounter.
Firstly, California is home to several species of snakes, including venomous ones such as rattlesnakes. The Hollywood Hills, with their mix of wild terrain and residential areas, can serve as a natural habitat for these creatures. Rattlesnakes in particular, are most active during warm weather and can be found lurking in rocky areas, brush piles, and even residential gardens.
When a dog encounters a snake, their natural curiosity may lead to an unintended confrontation. Snakes typically bite in self-defense, and when a dog gets too close or disturbs them, they may strike. The severity of the snakebite depends on various factors, such as the snake’s species, size, and the amount of venom injected. Swift action is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet.
Identifying a snakebite on your dog is crucial in providing immediate assistance. Common signs of a snakebite include puncture wounds, swelling, pain, and inflammation around the affected area. Your dog may also show signs of distress, such as whimpering, restlessness, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect a snakebite, it is vital to act promptly and follow these steps:
Stay calm: It is important to remain composed to effectively help your pet. Panicking can increase your dog’s anxiety and heart rate, potentially spreading venom more quickly through their system.
Keep your dog still: Restrict your dog’s movement to prevent the venom from spreading. Carry them, if possible, to avoid exertion.
Seek veterinary assistance immediately: Time is of the essence when dealing with snakebites. Contact your nearest emergency veterinarian and inform them of the situation. Follow their instructions for immediate care and transportation.
Do not attempt home remedies: Avoid applying tourniquets, ice packs, or attempting to suck out the venom yourself. These methods can often cause more harm than good.
Once your dog has been admitted to the vet for a snake bite injury, the veterinary team will immediately assess the severity of the bite and the overall condition of your dog.
Throughout the process, the team will keep you informed about your dog’s condition and progress. They will provide guidance on post-treatment care, including medication administration, wound care, and follow-up visits. It’s essential to closely follow their instructions and provide a calm and comfortable environment for your dog’s recovery.
However, prevention is always better than cure and a lot cheaper if you don’t have pet insurance. If we didn’t have pet insurance our bill could have been upwards of $8000 – yikes! and the animal hospital will ask for at least 75% of this this upfront.
To minimize the risk of your dog being bitten by a snake while on a hike, ask your vet about the rattlesnake vaccine – this won’t stop the venom from working its way around the body and isn’t a cure – but it will buy you some more time while getting to the hospital.
Be vigilant during walks: Keep your dog on a leash and avoid allowing them to wander off the designated paths. Stay attentive to your surroundings and watch out for any signs of snakes.
Snakeproof your yard: Clear your yard of potential hiding spots for snakes, such as brush piles and rock crevices. Consider installing snake-proof fencing to keep these reptiles away.
Learn about local snake species: Educate yourself about the types of snakes prevalent in your area. Knowledge of their habits and habitats will help you make informed decisions to protect your dog.
Ultimately, prioritizing your pets’s health and well-being is crucial, and financial considerations should not deter you from seeking immediate veterinary care in the event of a snake bite. Sometimes the hospital will work with you – I heard of a case where a dog owner couldn’t afford the treatment and was going to leave with her dog and the hospital where able to help and lowered the costs considerably in order to save the dog’s life.
Bonnie spent a night in the Metropolitan Animal Speciality Hospital (MASH….6565 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles. Tel: (855) 350-7387. Online at www.mash.vet.) Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the vet and staff there who were kind, understanding and patient and most importantly delivered our lil’ swollen, bruised, scared and embarrassed chipmunk back to us in one piece.
