Pet owners are being warned to keep an eye out for snakes after four animals suffering bites were taken into a Launceston veterinary clinic this week.
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Animal Medical Centre veterinarian Dr David Allen said two of the four animals had gone home while the others were still recovering at the clinic on Thursday.
‘Skeeter’ the fox terrier was one of the snake bite victims and Dr Allen said the almost two-year-old pup was lucky to be alive after being bitten on the tongue while on his owners property.
“You need to get [the animal] to the clinic very quickly … it’s not just giving them anti-venom … they need intensive care for quite a few days.”
Dr Allen said Tiger Snakes and Copperheads were the likely offenders and there were a few key symptoms to watch out for.
He said the animal may vomit immediately and collapse a short time later.
As the venom starts to take its effect, the animal could experience dilated pupils and may salivate.
“It’s just getting to the vet as fast as you can, that’s the main thing.”