Snakebite Treatment for Pets in Vestavia Hills, AL

Life-Saving Care for Snakebites in Dogs and Cats

If your pet has been bitten by a snake, every minute matters. Call us immediately at (205) 824-1575 and be prepared to bring your pet to us as soon as possible.

At Pet Wellness Animal Hospital in Vestavia Hills, we offer immediate veterinary care for snakebites in dogs and cats. We are trained in emergency stabilization, antivenin therapy, and ongoing monitoring to ensure the best possible outcome for your beloved pet.

How We Treat Snakebites at Pet Wellness Animal Hospital

When your pet arrives with a suspected snakebite, we act quickly and carefully:

• Emergency Stabilization of Your Pet.  We will immediately assess your pet’s condition, assess his or her breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and bite location.  We will begin IV fluids to maintain circulation and reduce shock.
  
• Antivenin Therapy.  We will administer antivenin therapy for venomous bites when indicated.  Antivenin therapy neutralizes venom and minimizes tissue and systemic damage.  This therapy is most effective within the first few hours of the bite,
  
• Pain Management & Supportive Care.  We will give your pet pain relief medications tailored to your pet’s condition, clean any wounds to prevent infection and will perform bloodwork to monitor any clotting issues and organ function.
  
• Close Monitoring.  We may suggest your pet be closely monitored.  Pets that have been bitten by a snake may require hospitalization for 24–72 hours.  Ongoing evaluation allows us to watch for any complications to be sure your pet has the best chance of recovery.

What to Do if Your Pet Is Bitten by a Snake

1. Stay calm and keep your pet as still and quiet as possible.
   
2. Do not apply ice, a tourniquet, or attempt to suck out the venom.
   
3. Call us immediately at (205) 582-9215.
   
4. Bring your pet to Pet Wellness Animal Hospital as quickly as possible.

FAQS ABOUT SNAKE BITES AND PETS

What are the Types of Snakebites in Alabama

Alabama is home to both venomous and nonvenomous snakes. Even nonvenomous bites can cause pain and infection, but venomous bites—particularly from pit vipers like copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes—can be life-threatening to pets.

What are the Types of Snakebites

1. Nonvenomous Bites
   
   • Caused by snakes that do not inject venom (e.g., garter snakes, rat snakes).
     
   • Typically result in:
     
     • Puncture wounds or scratches
       
     • Mild swelling or localized pain
       
     • Risk of secondary infection
       
2. Venomous Bites
   
   • Caused by snakes that inject venom, such as rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths (pit vipers), or coral snakes.
     
   • Severity depends on:
     
     • Type of snake
       
     • Amount of venom injected
       
     • Location and depth of the bite
       
     • Size and species of the animal bitten
       
3. Venomous bite subtypes:
   
   • Cytotoxic bites (e.g., rattlesnakes): destroy tissue at the site, causing swelling, bruising, and necrosis.
     
   • Hemotoxic bites (e.g., copperheads): damage blood vessels, cause bleeding, and interfere with clotting.
     
   • Neurotoxic bites (e.g., coral snakes): affect the nervous system, potentially causing paralysis and respiratory failure.
     

What Are The Signs My Pet Has Been Bitten By A Snake?

Signs that your pet has been bitten by a snake can vary depending on the type of snake, how much venom was injected, and the size and species of your pet. 

What are the Immediate or Sudden Signs That My Pet Was Bitten?

• Swelling at the bite site (often on the face, neck, or legs)
  
• Puncture wounds or bleeding (may be hard to see under fur)
  
• Sudden pain – your pet may yelp, limp, or avoid using a leg
  
• Whining, shaking, or restlessness
  
• Rapid breathing or panting
  
• Weakness or collapse

Are there Progressive or Severe Signs (Especially in Venomous Bites) of Snakebite?

• Bruising or discoloration around the bite
  
• Lethargy or listlessness
  
• Vomiting or drooling
  
• Muscle tremors or twitching
  
• Dilated pupils
  
• Seizures
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Collapse or shock

Where On Pets Do Snakebites Typically Occur?

• Dogs: Most often bitten on the face, neck, or legs, especially if sniffing or exploring.
  
• Cats: Bites are usually on the paws, legs, or face, often from hunting or curiosity.
  

Why Choose Pet Wellness Animal Hospital for Snakebite Care?

• Rapid, same-day emergency care
  
• Experienced staff trained in snakebite treatment
  
• Advanced diagnostics and monitoring
  
• Compassionate, client-focused service
  

Serving Vestavia Hills, Hoover, Birmingham and Surrounding Areas in Alabama

Pet Wellness Animal Hospital provides snakebite treatment and urgent care for pets throughout the Birmingham metro area, including Vestavia Hills and Hoover. If your pet is bitten by a snake, don’t wait—call us right away.

Emergency Snakebite Care in Vestavia Hills, AL

If your pet may have been bitten by a snake, contact Pet Wellness Animal Hospital right away at (205) 582-9215 for expert emergency care.

Call Us Now If Your Pet Has Been Bitten: (205) 824-1575