Today let’s talk about the acute situation of snakebite, as requested by many followers. It’s now spring and snakes have become active again. Every year, several pets in Hong Kong get bitten by snakes. The city has around 14 species of venomous snakes, of which some are lethal if the victim is not treated promptly by an experienced emergency veterinarian. Therefore, pet owners should consider snakebite a medical emergency — if your pet is bitten by a snake, be sure to seek medical advice immediately!
Most snakebite happen to dogs, because snakes usually do not actively attack, but a curious dog sniffing or roaming around might just be enough to disturb or intrude a snake’s territory and provoke an attack. That is also why most bites occur on the front legs and the head of dogs.
Knowing the species of the culprit is definitely helpful, but never attempt to catch it to avoid being bitten. A clear photo might help your veterinarian to determine appropriate treatment. Otherwise, a sophisticated emergency veterinarian can presumptively diagnose snake envenomation based on history and clinical experience.
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Address: G-2/F, Trinity Towers, 339 Lai Chi Kok Road, Sham Shui Po
Online booking for revisit with primary care veterinarians or vaccination:
https://www.cityuvmc.com.hk/en/online-booking