Snake bite
Swelling of the left side of the face in a Staffordshire Bull Terrier bitch after being bitten by an adder.
Snake bite
A snake bite can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. severe local pain and swelling as well as systemic signs of poisoning. Depending on the type of venom, blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. disorders, circulatory problems or neurological symptoms are possible. It is considered an emergency because the condition can deteriorate within a short period of time.
A snake bite in pets is a potentially life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. Snake bites occur when venomous snakes pierce an animal’s skin with their fangs and inject toxins. These toxins can have various effects in the body of the affected animal and lead to local and systemic reactions. In Central Europe, the adder (Vipera berus) is the most common venomous snake responsible for bite injuries in pets. The venom of the adder contains a complex mixture of enzymesEnzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate specific chemical reactions in the body without being consumed. They play a crucial role in virtually all physiological processes. and toxins that can cause tissue damage, coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. disorders and neurological symptoms. The severity of the poisoning depends largely on the amount of venom injected, the bite site, the size of the animal and the time until veterinary treatment.
Causes
There are hardly any venomous snakes in Germany. For bite injuries caused by snakes abroad, please refer to specialist literature.
The adder is of significance. It is strictly protected and not aggressive by nature. Nevertheless, dogs may be bitten while rummaging around.
When an adder bites, a mixture of components with different effects enters the body of the bitten animal.
The ingredients of the snake venom have an anticoagulantAn anticoagulant is a medication that inhibits blood coagulation, thus preventing the formation of blood clots. It is used for the treatment and prevention of thrombosis and embolism. effect, increase the permeability of the blood vessel walls, damage muscle and nerve cells, and can lead to the breakdown of red blood cells and paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system..
Animals weighing less than 10 kg are particularly at risk due to the toxicityToxicity is the measure of a substance's harmfulness or poisonousness. Toxicity can vary depending on the dose, route of exposure, and individual sensitivity. of the venom and the amount of venom that has entered the body in the event of a bite. This affects small dog breeds, young dogs and cats.
Supplements
In Germany, the adder (Vipera berus) is the most important native venomous snake. This protected snake species is not aggressive and usually only bites in self-defense. Snake bites typically occur when dogs or cats encounter adders while rummaging in the undergrowth, in heathland or on the edges of forests and harass or accidentally disturb them. The adder prefers sunny but sheltered habitats such as forest clearings, moorland and heathland. The animals are particularly active in the spring and summer months.
The venom of the adder contains a variety of bioactive substances, including hemotoxins that affect blood coagulationBlood coagulation is a process that helps stop Bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets and certain proteins in the plasma form a blood clot that seals the wound. and cause tissue damage, as well as enzymesEnzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate specific chemical reactions in the body without being consumed. They play a crucial role in virtually all physiological processes. that damage cell membranes. These toxins have an anticoagulantAn anticoagulant is a medication that inhibits blood coagulation, thus preventing the formation of blood clots. It is used for the treatment and prevention of thrombosis and embolism. effect, increase the permeability of the blood vessel walls and can lead to tissue necrosisNecrosis is the Death of tissue in a living organism, caused by factors such as injury, infection, or lack of blood supply. Necrotic tissue can cause Inflammatory conditions and further health problems.. They also damage muscle and nerve cells and can cause the breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysishemolysis is the process of red blood cell breakdown, releasing hemoglobin. It can be triggered by various factors, including certain diseases, toxins, or incompatible transfusions.) and paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system..
Small dog breeds, puppies and cats with a body weight of less than 10 kg are particularly at risk, as the dose of venom is higher in relation to their body weight. The bite site also influences the severity of the poisoning – bites in the head or neck area are particularly dangerous due to their proximity to the brain and the faster systemic spread of the venom.
Symptoms
Snake bite in dogs and cats
Typical Symptoms:
- Puncture sites as a sign of the snake’s teeth penetrating
- Local, very painful swelling
- Restlessness, lameness (if bitten on the limbs)
- Nausea, vomiting possible
- DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.
Alarm signs:
- Rapidly increasing swelling,
- CoagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. disorder, tendency to bleed, hematomas
- Weakness, collapse,
- Increased respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. and heart rate, shortness of breath
- Neurological symptoms (staggering / ataxia, tremors, paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system.),
- DestructionDestruction means "demolition." In medicine, it refers to the destruction of cells, tissues, organs, or body parts. The growth of malignant Tumors is also usually accompanied by destruction of the surrounding tissue. of blood cells (hemolysishemolysis is the process of red blood cell breakdown, releasing hemoglobin. It can be triggered by various factors, including certain diseases, toxins, or incompatible transfusions.), dark urine
- Bite in the head/neck area (airway danger)
Escalation/course:
- 1–6 h: Swelling/coagulation disorder (coagulopathyCoagulopathy refers to a blood coagulation disorder that can lead to an increased tendency to bleed or excessive clotting. Causes can include genetic factors, diseases, certain medications, or liver dysfunction.) can escalate
- 6–24 h: systemic effects (hypotension, kidneys, shock) possible
- Later: NecrosisNecrosis is the Death of tissue in a living organism, caused by factors such as injury, infection, or lack of blood supply. Necrotic tissue can cause Inflammatory conditions and further health problems./infection possible at the bite site
- ComaA coma is a deep state of unconsciousness where an individual cannot be awakened and does not respond to stimuli. In dogs and cats, it can be caused by severe illnesses, poisoning, or neurological problems.
In the case of bite injuries caused by snakes, the legs are usually affected, but snake bites also occur in the face area in dogs and cats.
The closer the bite is to the brain, the faster and more serious the effect of the toxins.
The individual symptoms can be (see fig.)
The clinical signs of a snake bite can vary depending on the location, amount of venom injected and individual reaction of the animal. Typically, symptoms develop within minutes to hours after the bite. At the bite site itself, there is significant, painful swelling that can spread rapidly. Often, two punctiform puncture sites of the venomous fangs can be seen, surrounded by redness and bruising. The affected area of the body feels warm and can turn bluish-purple as the poisoning progresses.
Systemic symptoms include weakness, staggering / ataxia, and coordination disorders. Many animals show signs of pain and discomfort, such as restlessness, tremors, or whining. In severe cases of poisoning, gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. symptoms such as vomiting and diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems. can occur. The heart rate increases, breathing becomes faster and shallower, and the mucous membranes may appear pale or cyanoticCyanotic refers to the presence of cyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes, indicating a lack of oxygen in the blood.. Due to the anticoagulantAn anticoagulant is a medication that inhibits blood coagulation, thus preventing the formation of blood clots. It is used for the treatment and prevention of thrombosis and embolism. effect of the venom, spontaneous bleeding may occur, for example from the nose, gums or in the form of blood in the urine.
As the poisoning progresses, neurological symptoms such as paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. and impaired consciousness up to comaA coma is a deep state of unconsciousness where an individual cannot be awakened and does not respond to stimuli. In dogs and cats, it can be caused by severe illnesses, poisoning, or neurological problems. can occur. In severe cases, hypovolemic or toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. shock with hypotension develops, which can lead to death if left untreated. The symptomatologySymptomatology refers to the entirety of symptoms associated with a particular disease or condition. It describes how a disease manifests itself externally. usually reaches its peak after 12–24 hours, but can last for several days depending on the severity of the poisoning and the therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. initiated.
First Aid
- Clean the bite wound with soap and water and cover the wound. Continue as with any other injury.
- If bitten in a limb, do not tie off the corresponding leg (no tourniquet).
- Do not cut into the wound to flush out the venom. Also, do not try to remove the venom in any other way.
- Do not harm the snake, it is protected by nature conservation, and do not try to catch it.
- The need to see a veterinarian immediately exists for cats and small dogs (< 10 kg body massIn pathology, the term "mass" is used to describe an abnormal lump or growth in the body. A mass can form in the skin or subcutaneous tissue, or even inside the body. The causes can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).), for bites on the animal's face, and for significant swelling and pain symptoms at the bite site.
Diagnosis
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of a snake bite is primarily based on the medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and the clinical picture. The decisive factor is information about possible contact with a snake or the animal’s stay in a habitat in which venomous snakes occur. The characteristic local changes at the bite site, such as swelling, tenderness and possibly visible puncture sites of the venomous fangs, reinforce the suspicion.
During the clinical examination, the vital parameters (heart rate, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. rate, body temperature, mucous membrane color, capillary refill time) are recorded and the neurological function is assessed. The extent of the swelling should be documented in order to monitor the course.
In terms of laboratory diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., various parameters can provide indications of snake bite poisoning. A complete blood count can show anemia due to hemolysis or blood loss as well as thrombocytopeniaThrombocytopenia is a condition in which the number of platelets in the blood is lower than normal, increasing the risk of mild to severe Bleeding.. CoagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. parameters such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) are often prolonged. Blood chemistry can show elevated creatine kinase (CK)Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in various tissues of the body, especially the heart, skeletal muscles, and brain. An increase in CK levels in the blood may indicate damage to these tissues, for example, from a heart attack or muscle injuries. levels as a sign of muscle damage as well as changes in kidney and liver values.
In severe cases of poisoning, further examinations such as electrocardiogramSee ECG. (electrocardiogramSee ECG.), blood gas analysis and ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. examinations of the abdomenThe abdomen, also known as the abdominal cavity, is the part of the body located between the rib cage and the pelvis. It houses several important organs, including the stomach, liver, kidneys, intestines, and spleen. and thorax / chestThe thorax / chest is the upper part of the trunk, surrounded by the ribs, sternum, and spine. It protects vital organs such as the heart and lungs. are useful in order to identify complications at an early stage. The differential diagnosisDifferential diagnosis is the process of weighing two or more conditions that cause similar symptoms to determine the specific cause of a patient's symptoms. includes other causes of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. swelling and systemic diseases, such as insect bites, bite injuries from other animals, allergic reactions or acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. infections.
Further veterinary measures
The therapy for snake venom intoxication caused by an adder is primarily symptomatic, i.e. the vital functionsVital functions are essential bodily functions necessary to sustain life. These include breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and level of consciousness. are ensured and supported.
Although there is an antivenom, its administration can be associated with allergic reactions.
On the other hand, it must be borne in mind that an antivenom should be administered as early as possible after a snake bite, as otherwise its effect can be expected to diminish.
Supplements
Treating a snake bite requires a rapid and systematic approach. The initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. focus is on stabilizing the patient. In the event of circulatory problems, intravenous fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is initiated to ensure the perfusionPerfusion is the process of blood supply to a tissue or organ. Adequate perfusion is crucial for oxygen and nutrient supply, as well as for the removal of metabolic products. of vital organs and promote the excretion of toxins. Analgesics are administered to relieve pain, although non-steroidalNon-steroidal refers to medications or substances that are not steroids and often have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or antipyretic effects. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Pain and Inflammatory conditions. anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. should be used with caution due to possible coagulation disorders. Opioids such as buprenorphine or methadone are often the first-line treatment.
In the case of pronounced swelling that can impair breathing, particularly in the case of bites in the head and neck area, monitoring of the airways is essential. In severe cases, oxygen therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. or even temporary intubation may be necessary.
Specific therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. includes the administration of antivenin (antiserum), if available. In Europe, a polyvalent antivenin is available that is effective against the venom of various European vipers. It should be administered as early as possible, as its effectiveness decreases with increasing time after the bite. Before use, the risk of allergic reactions to the antivenin must be weighed up, which is why careful monitoring is required during use.
Depending on the clinical picture, other medications are used to provide support: AntihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine in the body, thereby alleviating allergic reactions. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Itching, Skin inflammation, and other allergy symptoms. and corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions. can reduce the inflammatory reaction and swelling. If there are signs of a bacterial infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., antibiotic therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is indicated. In the case of coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. disorders, the administration of vitaminVitamins are organic compounds that are necessary in small amounts for the normal growth, development, and physiological function of the body. Vitamins must mostly be obtained through food, as the body cannot produce them or not in sufficient quantities. K or, in severe cases, a transfusion of fresh plasmaPlasma is the liquid part of blood in which blood cells are suspended. It contains water, salts, proteins, and other substances and serves as a transport medium for nutrients, hormones, and waste products. or whole bloodWhole blood refers to blood in its natural composition, as it exists immediately after being drawn from the body, including all blood cells and plasma. may be necessary.
Local wound care includes careful cleaning of the bite site and, if necessary, the application of a sterile, not too tight bandage. In the case of extensive necrosisNecrosis is the Death of tissue in a living organism, caused by factors such as injury, infection, or lack of blood supply. Necrotic tissue can cause Inflammatory conditions and further health problems., surgical debridement may be necessary, but this should only be carried out after the patient has been stabilized and the acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. symptoms of poisoning have subsided.
Prognosis and aftercare
The prognosis after a snake bite depends largely on various factors: the size of the animal, the amount of venom injected, the location of the bite and, above all, the time until veterinary treatment. In general, larger animals have better chances of survival than smaller ones, as the dose of venom is lower in relation to body weight. With timely and adequate treatment, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for most dogs and cats after an adder bite is good to cautiously favorable.
Aftercare plays a crucial role in complete recovery. In the first few days after the bite, the animal should be kept strictly calm in order to minimize the spread of the venom and promote healing. The bite site should be checked regularly for signs of infections or necrosisNecrosis is the Death of tissue in a living organism, caused by factors such as injury, infection, or lack of blood supply. Necrotic tissue can cause Inflammatory conditions and further health problems.. Depending on the severity of the poisoning, regular check-ups with the veterinarian are necessary to monitor the healing process.
Laboratory tests to check coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. parameters, blood count and kidney and liver values should be carried out after 24–48 hours and, if necessary, at further intervals. In the case of extensive tissue damage, healing can take several weeks and in some cases leave scar tissue formation or functional limitations.
Long-term complications are rare, but can occur, particularly in severe cases of poisoning, and include chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney damage, persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. neurological deficits or impaired mobility due to scar tissue formation. However, a full recovery is to be expected in most cases if treatment is initiated in good time.
Summary
Snake bites in dogs and cats in Germany are mainly emergencies caused by the adder. The venom of this snake contains complex toxins that can lead to local swelling, tissue damage and systemic effects such as coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. disorders and neurological symptoms. Small animals under 10 kg body weight and bites in the head and neck area are particularly at risk.
The clinical signs range from local swelling and pain to systemic symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, shortness of breath and, in severe cases, shock or coma. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is based on the medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., the clinical picture and laboratory diagnostic tests, which can show changes in the blood count and coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. parameters.
The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. includes stabilizing the patient with fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., pain management, and, if necessary, administering antivenin. SupportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures such as antihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine in the body, thereby alleviating allergic reactions. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Itching, Skin inflammation, and other allergy symptoms., corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions., and antibiotics, if needed, complement the treatment. With timely and adequate care, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for most animals is good, with aftercare involving rest and regular check-ups being crucial for a full recovery.
Outlook on current research
Research into snakebite poisoning in pets is constantly evolving. Current studies focus on improving antivenin therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., particularly on developing species-specific antivenins with lower allergic potential. The fragmentation of antibodyAn antibody is a protein produced by the immune system to recognize and bind specific antigens. By binding to the antigen, antibodies can help destroy or neutralize it. and the production of recombinant antibodyAn antibody is a protein produced by the immune system to recognize and bind specific antigens. By binding to the antigen, antibodies can help destroy or neutralize it. against specific toxinA toxin is a poison produced by living cells or organisms that can be harmful to the body upon contact or ingestion. Toxins can originate from bacteria, plants, animals, or fungi. components are promising approaches.
Another research focus is on identifying and characterizing the individual toxinA toxin is a poison produced by living cells or organisms that can be harmful to the body upon contact or ingestion. Toxins can originate from bacteria, plants, animals, or fungi. components in the venom of the adder and other European vipers. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of action can lead to the development of targeted antidotes that specifically neutralize the most harmful components.
There is also progress in the field of supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. New approaches to preventing and treating tissue necrosis, such as the use of matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors or specific phospholipase A2 blockers, are being investigated. These could reduce local damage after snakebites and accelerate healing.
The development of point-of-care tests for the rapid detection of snake venom in the blood or at the bite site could facilitate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. in the future and enable more targeted therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. Similarly, improved protocols for the initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. care and management of snakebites are being developed, based on current scientific findings and designed to further improve the survival chances of affected animals.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- How do I know if my pet has been bitten by a venomous snake?
Typical signs are a rapidly increasing, painful swelling at the bite site, often with two punctiform puncture sites of the venomous fangs. The animal shows pain, restlessness and, as the poisoning progresses, weakness, staggering / ataxia or vomiting. - Are all snake bites dangerous for pets?
Not all snakes are venomous. In Germany, the adder is mainly relevant. However, bites from non-venomous snakes can also become problematic due to bacterial infections and should be examined by a veterinarian. - What should I do if I suspect my pet has been bitten by a snake?
Stay calm, keep the animal as calm as possible and go to the nearest veterinarian immediately. Do not try to suck out the venom or cut open the wound, and do not apply tourniquets. - How long does it take for symptoms to appear after a snake bite?
InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. symptoms such as swelling and pain usually appear within minutes. Systemic symptoms can develop within 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the amount of venom and the bite site. - Is there an antidoteAn antidote is a substance used to neutralize or reverse the harmful effects of poisoning or a drug overdose. Antidotes can be specific to certain poisons or have more general detoxifying effects. to snake bites in Germany?
Yes, there is a polyvalent antivenin against European viper venom, which can be used in severe cases of poisoning. The decision on whether to use it is made by the treating veterinarian based on the clinical picture. - How can I protect my pet from snake bites?
In known adder areas, dogs should be kept on a leash. Avoid dense undergrowth, piles of stones and sunny forest edges, especially in the warm months when snakes are active. - Can an animal recover completely after a snake bite?
With timely and adequate treatment, complete recovery is possible in most cases. However, severe poisoning can lead to long-term complications such as kidney damage or restricted movement. - Which dog and cat breeds are particularly at risk?
Small breeds under 10 kg body weight are more at risk due to the higher relative dose of venom. Hunting dogs have an increased risk of exposure due to their behavior. In cats, mainly free-roaming cats are affected. - How long does it take to recover from a snake bite?
The acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. phase largely lasts 24–48 hours. Complete recovery can take a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the poisoning and any complications. - Can an animal be bitten multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. times by venomous snakes and does it develop immunityImmunity is the body's ability to protect itself against infections, diseases, or foreign substances. It can be natural, as with innate immunity, or acquired, as with adaptive immunity, which develops after an infection or vaccination.?
Animals can be bitten multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. times and do not develop natural immunityImmunity is the body's ability to protect itself against infections, diseases, or foreign substances. It can be natural, as with innate immunity, or acquired, as with adaptive immunity, which develops after an infection or vaccination. to snake venom. On the contrary: repeated bites lead to increased allergic reactions.
Literature
- Löwe, G. and Löwe, O. (2021). Emergencies in dogs and cats – A veterinary Guide. Kynos-Verlag. 208 pp.
- Turkovic V, Teichmann S, Dörfelt R. Adder bites in dogs in southern Germany – a retrospective study of 51 cases (2006–2014). Veterinary Practice Small Animals. 2015;43(4):221-230.
- Lervik JB, Lilliehöök I, Frendin JH. Clinical and biochemical changes in 53 Swedish dogs bitten by the European adder – Vipera berus. Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica. 2010;52(1):26.
- Sutton NM, Bates N, Campbell A. Canine adder bites in the UK: a retrospective study of cases reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service. Veterinary Record. 2011;169(23):607.
- Marti E, Sánchez-Valverde MA, Solano-Gallego L. Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia associated with a presumptive snakebite in a dog. Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care. 2021;31(1):143-147.
- Segev G, Shipov A, Klement E, Harrus S, Kass P, Aroch I. Vipera palaestinae envenomation in 327 dogs: a retrospective cohort study and analysis of risk factors for mortality. Toxicon. 2020;143:114-120.