Protect pets during snake season

By Lua Ikenasio

Nov 15, 2024

The Rochester Veterinary Practice is warning pet owners of snakes as snake bite incidents rise. Photo by Ryan Bellingham

With temperatures on the rise, the risk of snakes harming your pet are increasing as well.

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Since September, more than 20 pets have been presented at Rochester Veterinary Practice for snake bites, with four in the past week alone.

Veterinarian Keith Fletcher said this year had been the worst for snake bites he had seen.

“Around here, snakes are part of the environment, we always get a lot of snake bites and this year has probably been one of the worst years so far,” he said.

“The most important thing is to get them into the clinic as soon as possible after a bite.

“It is also important to make sure your pet has good recall so that if your dog starts to take an interest in snakes, you can call it back and get it away from the snakes.”

The RSPCA advises home owners to keep grass low in their backyard or property and to clear any rubbish and objects where snakes can lurk.

Pets should be on a leash if being walked close to bushland, especially near any water, and long grass should be avoided.

If your pet has been bitten by a snake outside of normal vet hours, Rochester Veterinarian Practice offers an after-hours emergency service.

If you think your pet has been bitten, contact the practice immediately on 5484 2255.

By Lua Ikenasio