Snakebite on pets can be fatal
Snake Season is here, from November until April next year, and residents are warned to be vigilant of snakes.
Brakpan resident and snake expert Shawn Hefer (from the African Snakebite Institute) warned residents to keep a watchful eye on their pets, after recent fatal bites on pets throughout South Africa.
“The only potentially deadly snake we have indigenous to Brakpan is the rinkhals, with the odd exception of the occasional hitchhiker that might sneak in on a truck or other means of transport,” said Hefer.
The rinkhals, also known as the ring-necked spitting cobra, varies in colour from dark brown to olive, with a dark belly and one or two white bands on its hood (neck).
“When an animal or person sustains spit in the eyes from a rinkhals, or one of our spitting cobras, the best and most effective first aid measure is to get the victim’s head under a tap and flush the eyes gently with clean running water for 10 to 15 minutes.
“In most cases this is sufficient, but it is always better to do a follow-up with a vet or doctor. The doctor will usually prescribe an eye ointment to aid the recovery and prevent secondary infection.”
Hefer added that people should not waste time with traditional and hearsay remedies when a pet has been bitten by a venomous snake.
“Immobilise the animal and get to the nearest vet as soon as possible,” he advised
The rinkhals has the ability to play dead; when it’s shamming death, it usually lies on its back with its mouth agape.
“Snakes that appear to be dead should not be picked up, as many, like the rinkhals, feign death, but will readily bite when handled.”
Residents who want a snake removed from their property can contact Hefer on 084 383 7082.
Also read:
Don’t give sweets to your pets
Tiener oorleef bye aanval, troeteldiere dood
