HOEDSPRUIT – Two sibling dogs bitten by a Mozambican spitting cobra have made a full recovery and have been discharged from hospital.

According to their owner, Chantelle Bouwer, the family moved from Gauteng to Gravelotte in March, and their dogs had never encountered a snake before. That changed when eight-year-old white Labrador Eden and 11-month-old Jasper came face-to-face with a Mozambican spitting cobra.

A critical dash to hospital

Eden was bitten first and is believed to have received the larger dose of venom. Although Jasper was also bitten, he initially showed no symptoms.

When the family arrived home, Eden was already critically ill. Her face was badly swollen, she was extremely dizzy, and it was clear she needed urgent medical attention. The family immediately contacted Maroela Animal Hospital, about 65km away, and rushed her there.

According to the hospital’s Facebook page, Eden arrived in a critical condition. She was struggling to breathe, her gums had turned purple, and she required immediate emergency treatment.

Community steps in with antivenom

“Dr Liesel Schreiber administered two vials of polyvalent antivenom, but due to the severity of the envenomation, Eden remained comatose, and her condition was still very guarded,” the hospital said.

The hospital thanked Hoedspruit Reptile Centre (HRC) for quickly supplying an additional two vials of antivenom when they were urgently needed.

Later that evening, Eden’s owners contacted the hospital after Jasper also began showing signs of a snake bite. Once again, the HRC immediately supplied another two vials of antivenom.

Both dogs were admitted overnight for intensive monitoring and supportive care.

Dr Jamie Traynor and Christo Schreiber remained with them throughout the night to ensure they received the treatment they needed.

A reminder for pet owners

The hospital reminded pet owners that snake bites are always a medical emergency and that prompt veterinary treatment greatly improves the chances of survival.

“We thank Eden and Jasper’s owners for acting so quickly, and HRC for its generosity and support. Working together made all the difference for these two dogs,” the hospital said.

Tails wagging again

Bouwer told the Herald that both dogs have recovered well and are back to their old selves.

“We will forever be thankful for the kindness, urgency and professional care they showed our family during one of the most frightening experiences of our lives,” she said.