Snakes

Autumn is well and truly here and our wildlife is preparing for the change in season too. For snakes, this means preparing for hibernation, which increases the possibility of bites to those unlucky pets who find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.

With isolation still well underway and our dogs still needing to be walked, you may find yourself wandering off the beaten track to try and find somewhere...well... isolated to walk your canine pal.

Please be mindful of where you are walking and even more mindful of where your dog is exploring. A lead may be necessary to ensure your dog does not wander in to areas of particularly long grass or dense bush.

Get to know your snakes! The types we are most concerned about in Victoria are tiger, brown, black, red-bellied black and copperhead.

If your pet is bitten by a snake, this is an emergency and you must transport your pet to a vet immediately.

Steps to take:

1. Bites are usually inflicted on or around the head, neck and front legs 2. take note of the colour/ patterns on the snake (if you've got your phone handy, take a photo)

3. DO NOT attempt to catch the live snake (snakes are protected, killing them is illegal.)

Symptoms you may see:

- dull

- depressed

- pace around anxiously

- vomiting

- panting

- collapse straight after being bitten and then at normal for a period of time

- collapse

- become comatose

FIRST AID

- Keep your pet calm