Do you know the signs and symptoms of a snake bite and what to do in an emergency?

Snake bite reactions can differ in every horse due to different species, amount of venom, and where the horse was bitten. As horses can be quite inquisitive, snake bites can often be seen on the face or muzzle, but more often than not, bite marks are hard to detect due to the narrow shape of the fangs. Bites on the horse’s face are the most difficult to treat due to the high blood supply, causing rapid absorption.

Signs and Symptoms of a Snake Bite:

Wobbly gait and weakness

Laboured breathing

Colic signs – sweating/pawing/rolling

Swollen muzzle

Dilated pupils

Bleeding from mouth or nose

These symptoms can also be indicators of other diseases, including Hendra virus infection so if your horse has any of the above symptoms, or you suspect that they have been bitten, it is important to keep the horse as calm as possible and avoid exposing yourself or anyone else to any secretions or discharges from the horse’s nose, mouth or eyes.

Call your veterinarian immediately. It is vital that your horse is treated as soon as possible to achieve the best possible outcome.