What are some signs that my pet might have been bitten by a snake?

Venomous snakes, such as rattlesnakes and water moccasins, are quite common across America's and Southeast, and thousands of companion animals are bitten every year - especially in dry and rocky, or swampy, areas off the beaten track.

Signs of snakebite include rapid swelling near the site of the strike - often on the animal's head or face, fang marks in the middle of the swollen area, oozing of bloody fluid, acute pain, lethargy, weakness, and in some cases, total collapse.

Venom potency varies from species to species, and many strikes to animal victims are not fatal. Even so, venom can potentially cause great harm to bodily systems. Any animal bitten by a poisonous snake should be rushed to an animal clinic as quickly as possible.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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