Hiss off: keep your pets snake-safe year-round

As if devastating record water levels weren’t enough, the recent flooding event in northern NSW has brought with it a sinister threat to pets. Those in affected areas have reported a rise in spiders and snakes disturbed by the deluge.  

Australia is home to nearly 200 species of snakes, with 25 of those among the deadliest in the world. Pets are often at greater risk of a snake bite as they explore the backyard, enjoy a walk or visit the local park. 

Ever adventurous and curious, dogs are particularly susceptible to these salty serpents, with over 6,000 snake bites recorded in Australia each year. And while fewer incidents are reported, cats are still at risk of snake bites.  

An evergreen issue

It’s no surprise that most attacks occur in regional Australia rather than cities, but these are largely confined to hotter months when snakes are out and about in greater numbers. According to PetSure data, the peak period for incidents begins in October, when the change in weather brings snakes out in search of a mate, and persists through the hotter months. But don’t let the cooler weather lead to a lack of vigilance – snake bites are possible all year round. 

Deluge of dangers

In the wake of floods such as those in the Hunter and Mid North Coast regions of NSW in 2025, the likelihood of a snake encounter is higher than usual. Displaced from their homes and seeking food and shelter wherever they can find it, snakes affected by natural disasters are on the defensive. The abundant debris makes for an appealing temporary home for snakes, while small animals driven out of hiding by floodwaters are easy prey. 

Pets in a natural disaster situation, outside their usual routine and sometimes without a home, are more likely to come across a wild snake as they explore their new surroundings. 

How to tell if your pet has been bitten

Snake bites in pets aren’t always immediately apparent. Bite marks themselves are small enough to escape notice, while the common signs of a bite include: 

• Paralysis 

• Dilated pupils 

• Breathing difficulties and irregular heartbeat 

• Weakness or collapse – can be seen as wobbly hind legs  

• Muscle spasms 

• Vomiting 

• Excessive bleeding 

What to do in the event of a snake bite

If the above symptoms occur or you have even a remote suspicion your pet has been bitten by a snake, seek urgent veterinary care. Any hesitation can reduce the chance of your pet’s survival, so don’t wait to act. 

It’s important to keep your pet calm. Limiting their movement can reduce the effects of snake venom. Apply a firm bandage to the bite, but don’t apply a tourniquet; this can cut off circulation.  

If possible, try to identify the snake involved to help your vet assess the best treatment. Never attempt to catch or kill it.  

A vet can administer antivenom, which greatly increases your pet’s chances of survival. For more severe cases, hospitalisation and supportive care may be necessary. 

This complex treatment can be financially substantial, as PetSure’s 2024 claims data indicates**. For cats, the average treatment cost is $987 and the highest claim is $12,312. Dogs have an average treatment cost of $1,121, and can reach as high as $24,754 in some cases. 

While time is a critical factor in the event of a snake bite, vet care isn’t always readily accessible. Antivenom kits are useful for emergency preparedness and specifically designed for snake bites. While they aren’t a replacement for professional veterinary care, they can provide immediate first aid and help stabilise your pet until you can reach a vet. 

Those left isolated or stranded should consult vet telehealth support services such as VetChat. PetSure customers can access the LiveVet telehealth service, which connects users with Australian-registered vets via video call or chat through the Pet Portal, at no extra cost. 

Tips to protect your pet from snakes 

Prevention is always better than a cure. While the uncertainty and stress of a natural disaster situation can make it difficult to monitor your pet, there are some basic steps you can take that could help: 

• Avoid floodwaters, long, grassy areas and piles of debris 

• Keep your pet on a lead or in a carrier to make sure they stay close by 

• Look for the signs of a snake bite 

• Know the location of your nearest veterinary clinic 

Deadly symptoms and costly treatment make snake bites a significant threat to Aussie pets and their owners. Prevention remains the best strategy, but by preparing for an incident you can protect your pet and keep them healthy whenever snakes are about.

_{**Claims experience varies by circumstance and policy}