Has my dog got a snake bite?
Did you know there are 25 types of poisonous snakes in North America, on every part of the continent? And while not all snakes are poisonous, a ‘harmless’ non-venemous snake bite can still leave your furry friend in a bit of pain.
If you have a curious dog who loves sniffing around, it’s good to know what could happen if they meet a snake. Most snakes prefer to keep to themselves, but sometimes our pups’ natural curiosity gets the best of them — and that’s when accidents happen.
When a snake bites a dog, it can be anything from a small scare to something a bit more serious, depending on whether the snake is venomous or not. So knowing what to look out for can make a big difference in keeping your dog safe at all times.
What are snake bites on dogs?
A snake bite happens when a snake uses its fangs to puncture a dog's skin, potentially injecting venom. The severity of the bite depends on whether the snake is venomous or non-venomous. Non-venomous bites typically cause localized pain and swelling, while venomous bites can lead to severe reactions and require immediate vet attention.
Symptoms of snake bites on dogs
The dog snake bite timeline varies depending on the type of snake and severity of the bite.
Symptoms from venomous bites, such as swelling and pain, can appear within minutes, while more serious effects like breathing issues or organ damage may develop over several hours. Non-venomous bites typically heal within days, but venomous bites can require weeks of treatment and recovery.
If a snake does bite your dog, you’ll want to know what’s what, especially since the symptoms can vary depending on the type of snake.
Here’s a quick guide to spotting the difference.
Non-venomous snakes and their bites
Non-venomous bites aren’t usually a big deal (nothing life-threatening), though they can still cause a bit of discomfort. Symptoms might include:
- Localized swelling or bruising around the bite
- Possible visible puncture wounds
- Bleeding from the wound
- Pain and infection may occur after a time
Here are some of the non-venemous snakes to keep an eye out for:
- Garter snakes
- Boas
- Pythons
- King snakes
Venomous snakes and their bites
The poisonous snakes are a different story, and can of course be much more serious.
- Shaking and tremors
- Excessive salivation (ptyalism)
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Obvious tissue damage, discoloration and bleeding from wound site
- Vomiting and/or incontinence
- Blood in urine
- Altered mental status
- Dilated pupil
- Muscle contractions
- Loss of bodily movements (ataxia)
- Limb weakness (tetraparesis)
- Collapse
- Paralysis
- Death
And if you see any of these venomous snakes around your pup, stay alert:
- Rattlesnakes
- Cottonmouths
- Coral snakes
- Sidewinders
These are only a few of the snakes that can be dangerous for your pup - always be on the lookout if you live in an area where snakes like this might be present. And if you’re an active family that enjoys the great outdoors, it might be a good idea to read up on potential venomous snakes in your area.
Causes of snake bites on dogs
When it comes to snake bites, a lot depends on the snake itself — and the situation. Not all bites are created equal. Some, like those from non-venomous snakes, may cause little more than a scare (and maybe some swelling), while venomous bites can have more serious consequences.
Here’s what plays a role in how severe a snake bite might be:
Here’s what plays a role in how severe a snake bite might be:
- The snake’s species: Not all snakes are venomous, but when they are, their venom can vary in toxicity. Some species pack a stronger punch than others.
- Size and maturity of the snake: Bigger, more mature snakes tend to have more venom at their disposal.
- Where the bite happens: The location of the bite matters! For example, bites on the chest or abdomen can allow venom to reach the heart and spread through the body more quickly. On the flip side, bites on the head or legs are usually less life-threatening.
- Time of year: Early summer is like “venom season” for snakes — many have full stores of venom after winter.
- When the snake last bit something: If a snake hasn’t used its venom in a while, it’s likely to deliver a larger dose.
Venomous bites don’t just cause immediate pain — they can trigger a domino effect in your dog’s body. Venom can damage blood vessels and tissues, harm vital organs, and even destroy red blood cells. It can also throw off your dog’s blood pressure and pH balance, leading to further complications.
While it’s fascinating how much science is behind a single bite, the key takeaway is simple: if your dog gets bitten by a snake, venomous or not, don’t wait — get them to the vet right away. Time is critical when it comes to preventing complications.
Diagnosis of snake bites on dogs
If you think your dog might have been bitten by a snake, don’t waste time — get them to the vet as soon as possible. But here’s the thing: your dog needs you to stay calm. Panicking will only make them more anxious, and right now, staying quiet and still is the best thing for them.
Here are a few key steps to follow:
- Keep your dog still and quiet: Movement can spread venom faster through their body, so don’t let them walk. If you can, carry them to your car.
- Skip the home remedies: Ice packs, tourniquets, or suction kits might seem helpful, but they can do more harm than good. Your priority should be getting your dog professional care, not trying to treat them yourself.
- Bring clues if you can: If it’s safe, take a picture of the snake or, if the snake is dead, bring it with you. This can help the vet identify the snake and decide on the right treatment. (Just be careful — no need to risk another bite!)
Once you get to the clinic, your vet will ask about what happened and examine your dog for signs of a bite. They may use blood tests, imaging, or other diagnostics to confirm what type of bite it was and how severe it is. From there, they’ll start the treatment that’s best for your pup.
Time is everything in situations like this, so don’t wait — your quick actions can make all the difference.
Are your furry friend’s basic health care needs being met? If not, sign up for a Wag! Wellness Plan today and get access to routine shots, bloodwork, dental work and more.
Treatment of snake bites on dogs
Can a dog survive a snake bite without treatment?
Whether venomous or not, snake bites need professional care to ensure your dog heals properly and avoids complications. Here’s what you can expect during treatment:
Non-venomous bite treatment
For non-venomous bites, your vet’s first step will be to clean the wound thoroughly to prevent infection. Depending on the bite, they might prescribe:
- Antibiotics: to ward off any potential infections
- Anti-inflammatories or antihistamines: To reduce swelling and discomfort
These bites are usually straightforward to treat, and most dogs recover quickly with proper care and a bit of rest.
Venomous bite treatment
Venomous bites are more serious, and the treatment plan will depend on the snake, the severity of the bite, and your dog’s symptoms. If your vet determines antivenom is needed, it will be administered as soon as possible (ideally within six hours of the bite).
Here’s what else might be part of the treatment plan:
- Wound care: The bite area will be located, marked, and cleaned to reduce the risk of infection and track swelling.
- Oxygen and IV fluids: These can help control shock, support circulation, and protect against tissue damage.
- Medications: Anticonvulsants, antibiotics, antihistamines, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatories may all be used to manage symptoms and help your dog feel better.
- Monitoring: Your dog will likely be kept under close observation for 24–48 hours, as some effects of the venom may show up later.
The recovery timeline can vary widely:
- Mild cases: With minimal venom exposure, your dog might bounce back in just a few days.
- Severe cases: If complications arise, recovery can involve a longer hospital stay and even several weeks of aftercare at home.
Your vet will keep you informed every step of the way, and with prompt treatment and proper care, most dogs make a full recovery — even from a scary encounter with a venomous snake.
Worried about the cost of treating your pet's symptoms?
Pet Insurance covers the cost of many common pet health conditions. Prepare for the unexpected by getting a quote from top pet insurance providers.
Recovery from snake bites in dogs
Recovering from a snake bite can be a journey, and how well your dog bounces back depends on a mix of factors. Research shows that bites from rattlesnakes tend to be trickier to recover from compared to other venomous snakes, but don’t lose hope — successful recoveries are absolutely possible.
What affects recovery?
Several things play a role in how smoothly your dog recovers:
- Your dog’s age, size, and health: Puppies, senior dogs, or those with existing health issues may have a tougher time compared to healthy adult dogs.
- The time to treatment: The faster your dog gets care, the better the chances for a full recovery.
- Where the bite happened: Bites closer to vital organs, like on the chest or abdomen, can lead to more complications than those on the limbs or face.
- The size of the wound: Larger bites can take longer to heal and may be more prone to complications.
Possible challenges
Even with the best care, snake bites can present challenges:
- Delayed symptoms: Some venom effects can show up hours or even days after you thought your dog was in the clear. That’s why follow-up monitoring is so important.
- Critical condition on arrival: If your dog is already in a severe state when they reach the vet, recovery might be more complicated.
- Unknown snake type: When it’s unclear what kind of snake was involved, it can make treatment and recovery a bit trickier.
What does recovery look like?
For dogs that recover successfully (and many do!), follow-up care is key. Your vet will likely recommend:
- Wound checks: Making sure the bite area is healing well and free from infection.
- System evaluations: Tests to confirm that organs, muscles, and other systems are back to normal.
Recovery can take time — sometimes weeks or even months, especially if your dog needs rehabilitation or ongoing therapy. Patience is crucial during this period. With the right care and a little TLC, most dogs return to their regular selves.
A note on costs
Treating a snake bite can be expensive, especially if your dog requires extended care. While out-of-pocket costs might seem overwhelming, pet insurance can help ease the financial burden. Many plans reimburse up to 90% of the costs, often within a few days.
If you’re not already covered, it might be worth comparing policies to find one that suits your furry friend’s needs. Compare policies today and get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds, with Wag! Compare.
If you’re not already covered, it might be worth comparing policies to find one that suits your furry friend’s needs. Compare policies today and get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds, with Wag! Compare.
Snake Bite On Dogs Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Chihuahua
Penelope
12 Years
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My 4 lb chihuahua was bit in the head, above the eye by an adult pigmy rattle snake at 5pm. Within 45 minutes she was in ER. She was put on fluids and given anti venom. Her upper cheek area is swollen and eye is partially shut. She was kept overnight and I brought her to my veterinary in the early am. She was put on IV for the day until I brought her home at 4pm. She is walking, urinating and ate food on her own. My concern and question is has she had sufficient fluids? Also, the doctor said that blood work was not necessary. Do you feel I should bring her back tomorrow to test her kidney function? I am concerned about the effects of the anti venom over time? Thank you for your time.
Sept. 18, 2017
2 Recommendations
It seems like Penelope received swift immediate action of supportive care and antivenom which has lead to her being discharged from her Veterinarian; since the bite she has been on fluids and should have been a sufficient amount, all you need to concentrate on is whether is is eating and drinking on her own. Whilst a blood test may not be vital, it may be good to do one after a week just to see how the numbers are if it would put your mind at rest. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Sept. 19, 2017
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Rottweiler
Rommel
8 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Muscle Atrophy
Not Eating
Restless
Weakness In Hind Quarters
I have an 8.5 yo Rottie named Rommel aka wiggle butt, big butt, road dog... my big boy was about 130lbs in may 2017, right now hes about 10/15lbs less... on 7.29.17 we were Primitie camping in an area that is for sure rattlesnake country. That day, early evening i heard my Rom baby rustle around behind me at the campsite. Within 5-6 minutes I went walked over to his H2o bowl & poured him fresh water. It was all bad from there. He literally fell over (think Timmmmmber!) My 5 & 3 yo yell to me "Rom Baby fell!" I rush over; hes collapsed on the ground. Excessive drooling, dilated pupils, hind legs are stiff straight out, urinates, vomits, serizure, shaking/rocking, starts dropping fur (like shedding but rapid/excessive)...like i said all bad. No I did not rush him to the vet. Mostly because he was not moveable. We had no idea @ the time he had been bit THREE TIMES by a rattler on his 'big butt' (4 marks total/ONLY 1 set of bite marks though). No he didnt make a peep or move. My theory is: he was laying directly behind me when this happened & the kids were within 10ft, if he had made commotion as to what was going on me or the kids would have been investigating & then who else would have been bit...?? He made it through the night, thank god. I was prepared for the worst; still no idea as to what happened. Next morning he was doing wayyy better! Still not 100%. We kept him at camp to recover that Sunday, he had one little outing which was still too much for him. That Sunday night (same time as Saturday) kids ask me for another cookie, i tell them "yes let me finish putting my boots on" (my BF calls them my 'darth vaders') I start walking over to the rock where the cookies are, Rom baby is laying about a foot to the left of this rock. And sure as $hit a rattler about 3-3.5ft was creeping in to bite my Rom baby again. I did what any mama bear would do & drop kicked that @#$%er less than 6" away from his butt... This is when I knew what happened. I suspected it the night before but there was no evidence. Come monday he was still doing better. Tuesday evening i started worrying about him, Wednesday i was worried. By Thursday I didnt think he would make it. I would have taken him to the vet at that point, but everyone I know thats treated their big breads for rattler bites ends up in more debt. Prayed & prayed for something to give I knew I needed to get him help, this was (8.3.17). BF & I own a body shop (cars); @ the end of the day we had a customer walkin dropping off a gift card because we had helped her out couple weeks prior. As she was about to leave I remembered she used to work at a vet, asked her if she still did, she said yes, I asked her to look at Rom baby. On friday her & the veterinarian came back with antibiotics, IV, pain meds & cleaning stuff for the bites. The following week it was still super questionable if he was going to pull through. By 8.14.17 he was actually doing A LOT better. But now 8.21.17 he seems to have severe muscle loss/weakness. He has been eating much this last week either. Ive spent so much money buying him wet food because that was all he would eat @ first. Now he wont even eat bacon or a hot dog or a burger. He picks at the wet food, eats a little. My biggest question is, how long would it typically take for a rattlesnake bite to be fatal? His gums have good color, pupils are good. The lack of eating, muscles loss (which has caused him to lose balance/slip) are really worrying me. Is he still in recovery? How long will full recovery take? Can he fully recover?
Aug. 30, 2017
0 Recommendations
With swift veterinary care recovery from a snake bite can be short in duration with improvement in symptoms being just two or three days; when treatment is delayed the prognosis and the timeline is more varied and in some instances lucky to still be alive. Overall the amount of venom that entered the body and any secondary infection will have a bearing on the prognosis, if the snake had already bitten something prior to biting Rommel he would receive a smaller quantity of venom compared to if the snake had not discharged venom already; as you can see this is one of many variables, I cannot give you a timeline for Rommel’s case as there are many variables. All you can do is to offer supportive and symptomatic care as well as force feeding as required. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 30, 2017
Thank you. I feel like I've failed my road dog. I rescued him about 5 years ago from my BF's ex. She had begun neglecting him & let him get to a mere 65lbs!! It was early November right before a freeze and she kept him outside. I took him & hes a mamas boy. He's been the most loyal committed being I've ever known. Such a pure unconditional childlike love. If he hadn't shown such strength & fight for survival I would have acted sooner. I know now his bravery is because he refuses to show weakness; always being on guard for me & his babies. I had a vet clinic, (local) not from friend do blood work (a little over a week ago) basically tell me he would be needing thousands of dollars in treatment (still) or i should just put him down. I dont qualify for any kind of care credit, etc. I have too much "revolving credit" revolving credit basically being cosigning & taking care of everyone else to where i cant even get credit to save my road dog. But he keeps fighting & im not shortening his life. Idk. I appreciate the reply. Hindsight is 20/20. Hes such a trooper i had no idea of his literal internal struggle until recently. #roaddogforlife #wolfpack
Aug. 30, 2017
Rommel's Owner
My dog was bit by a nonvenomous snake a week ago and is being treated by our vet. Just reading on here for curiousity and this case is only one I feel compelled to comment on. I hope that living faithful noy as made a full recovery. But is it very smart to go primitive camping with a 3 yo a 5 yo and a dog? I think you put not only your dog in danger but also your children. I cannot fathom seeing the severe distress your dog experienced immediately after the bite and not finding some way to have him evacuated and taken to a vet or even taken home. Keeping him in a primitive campsite in that vondition imo was neglect. And then to wait until someone you remembered worked for a vet and happened to come by...stupid. imo. I too have very limited financial resources and don't qualify for care credit. I went to the bank pulled all of the cash in there except $20 and took my baby to the vet. I guess I am lucky ny bank will cover my checks with a $35 overdraft fee for each check that has now come in. I am $500+ overdrawn and have very little cash left to get by the next 2 weeks but I have no regrets. There are ways to get financial help for a dog in an emergency situation and had I not had access to cash to cover the vet bill I would have been calling, begging, borrowing, setting up a GoFundMe.... But thats just me. In some cases and don't know yours was one it is kinder to the animal to euthanize if we can't afgord expensive medical care rather than hope for the best and allow them to continue to suffer. Imo again.
June 8, 2018
Suzanne M.
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Rottweiler
Bruno
4 Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Weakness
Vomiting
Limb Swelling
Limping, Lump On Paw Pad
Quiet
He is not eating food since last 2 3 days when we touch him he turns too angry and tries to bite he is finding too difficult to lift his 2 limbs and hardly moves n barks. Can spot an injury near those limbs but not able to know that is bite or not. He was injected saline past day but still doesn't seems to be recovered.
Aug. 30, 2017
0 Recommendations
Snake bites can be very traumatic for dogs and may leave them confused, in pain and aggressive; snake or spider bites can be very painful (and in some cases deadly), even non-venomous snakes may cause a secondary infection would cause the life threatening. I would strongly suggest visiting a Veterinarian to examine the wound and to get Bruno some pain relief and some antibiotics if required. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 30, 2017
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