Spitting snakes
We are entering snake season where I live and while most snake encounters are true emergencies. This specific type of episode is mostly manageable at home.
Early summer, with the temperatures rising, sees our slithering friends become very active. We have loads of snakes, and some really dangerous ones, here where I live. Other parts of the world might currently be in a different season. However, the information should be valuable at any time.
It is mostly certain cobra types, and the Rinkhals, in southern Africa and around the world that utilize the spitting of venom. This is primarily a defense mechanism keeping a potential aggressor at a distance. It can also be used to immobilize prospective prey.
The muscles surrounding the venom gland contract and force the poisonous material through cranial holes at the end of the fangs. This is directed at their target's eyes. They have incredibly good aim and are very fast. Thankfully, it will have minimal effect if makes contact with unbroken skin.
The venom in the eye causes immense pain, swelling and inflammation resulting in blurred vision and inability to keep eyes open. If left untreated, can lead to corneal erosion and ulceration, scarring, uveitis and loss of vision.
Amount of venom, level of snake exasperation and contact duration in eyes will determine the effect and long term outcome.
The most important thing to do is flush the affected eyes out as soonest. Keep this up for a while, at least 10-20 minutes, to get as much venom out as possible. Ideally one should use sterile water or saline. The latter can sting a bit and the former, unless readily available, takes time to boil and allow for cooling. Traditionally farmers used to use milk to flush eyes, however, this does carry risks of infection and further irritation. If nothing appropriate is readily available, regular cold tap water will do. Key here is speed of application and amount of flushing. The most important point is to get rid of as much venom as possible to minimize contact time
Once the flushing is complete, eye drops will offer more relief from pain and inflammation. Drops that contain antibiotics are appropriate as well as lubricating agents. It is imperative to avoid eye medication that contain cortisone, as this will aggravate corneal ulcers, if present.
Pain medication or anti-inflammatories will also give your pet some much needed solace.
When to seek out veterinary attention:
- Eyes do not improve and substantially clear in 24 hours
- Bluish/grey area on the surface of the eye ball
- Excessive swelling around eye and lids
- Persistent pain
If one of your dogs has had a snake encounter, please check all your other dogs. Chances are good that they ganged up on the reptile and some venom got into other eyes as well. If the snake gets away from the dogs, chances are that it is still somewhere in your garden, if that is where the meeting took place. It would be a good idea to have it removed by a knowledgeable handler.
Beware, spitting snakes can also bite. If you suspect one of your dogs, or cats, or humans may have gotten bitten, please seek medical assistance immediately. Also take pictures of the snake for a positive identification, this is vital information for medical staff, human and animal alike.
Be safe out there!