Increased bite risk

GETTING up close and personal with your pet could save its life if it is bitten by a snake, according to one of Australia’s leading pet emergency organisations.
Murdoch University’s Pet Emergency Centre issues a warning last week for pet owners to be on the look out for snakes as the weather hots up and said mouth to nose resuscitation could be the thing that saves a pet’s life.
The effects of snakebite can occur within minutes according to Dr Lisa Smart and include bleeding and paralysis.
“Dogs or cats found with a snake or with suspected snake bite need to be taken immediately to their closest veterinarian,” she added.
Dr Smart advised that if the pet’s regular local vet was closed pet owners should go to the closest emergency clinic. “The treatment for a snake bite is antivenene, which must be given as soon as possible,” she said.
She said if the animal becomes limp with shallow breathing, mouth-to-nose resuscitation would need to be administered until veterinary help is available.
“To do this, lie the animal on its stomach with head and neck extended towards you,” Dr Smart instructed.
“Keep the muzzle closed, place a thin cloth over the nose to protect your own mouth, and breathe into the animal’s nose until the chest rises, then allow the animal to exhale and do this every five to 10 seconds.
“This action can save your pet’s life,” she said.