YANCHEP Veterinary Hospital has issued a warning to pet owners about the danger of snakes in Perth suburbs this spring following the death of a dog last week.
Cymantha Sorensen said she would treat as many as 20 dogs and several cats for snakebites each year and had already seen one pet dog fatally bitten by a dugite.
The dog presented to the hospital blue and not breathing after being in a backyard for just minutes and could not be revived with CPR and oxygen.
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READ NOWDr Sorensen said some pets collapsed and died very rapidly from a snakebite while others would appear to stagger or have difficulty breathing so it was time-critical to seek local veterinary treatment.
“If you think your pet has been bitten, do not wash the wound and do not attempt to catch or kill the snake,” she said.
“Instead, try and remain calm and get your pet without delay to the nearest veterinary clinic.
“We treat a lot of pets for potentially lethal snakebites and thanks to readily available antivenin and emergency medicines we can usually save their lives.”
Dr Sorensen said owners should be extra vigilant, long grass should be cut back around the home and dogs should always be kept on the lead around bush tracks and sand dunes.
“People living in high-risk areas would also be wise to have their dog trained in a snake avoidance course,” she said.
“There are several reputable trainers across the metropolitan area offering this training course.”