🐍 Snakes And Pets: How To Keep Your Furry Friends Safe

Here in Australia, we share our beautiful landscape with some of the world’s most venomous snakes. And while I adore photographing pets in scenic outdoor settings, capturing those joyful, tail-wagging, whisker-twitching moments, it's important we all stay alert because dogs and cats are naturally curious and snakes don’t always give a warning.

I avoid certain areas in the warm weather as I don’t want to risk a snake bite for any humans or furry friends.

So, let’s talk safety for anytime your pet is outside.

Snake Safety Reminder: Warmer Weather Means More Snake Activity

As temperatures rise, snakes become more active seeking mates, water and food sources. It's not uncommon to spot them in backyards, gardens, rockeries, bush trails and even in and around homes.

Most snakes will avoid human contact if given the opportunity. However, if they feel threatened or cornered, they may strike and bites can be dangerous or even fatal to both humans and pets.

To stay safe in snake-prone areas:

Keep grass short and gardens tidy.

Avoid leaving shoes or pet bowls outside.

Stay out of long grass and don’t let pets dig under rocks or explore holes.

Never let your pet approach a snake, even if it looks dead.

Always keep dogs on a leash or harness when walking or hiking.

Stay alert.

Why Are Dogs & Cats at Risk?

Dogs are curious and quick to chase. A rustle in the grass? A new smell? Off they go Cats, on the other hand, are stealthy and adventurous, which sometimes lands them in the wrong place at the wrong time. Both are at risk of snake bites, often with serious or fatal outcomes.

Keep pets supervised, especially in bushy or grassy areas. Don’t let them chase, sniff, or investigate snakes, even dead ones.

Stay alert. Keep them safe.

In Australia, the most common culprits include:

Eastern Brown Snake

Tiger Snake

Red-bellied Black Snake

Copperhead Snake

These snakes can be found in bushland, paddocks, coastal dunes and yes, even suburban backyards.

⚠️ Signs Your Pet May Have Been Bitten

Snake bites can look deceptively mild at first. But symptoms can worsen quickly. Look out for:

Dogs:

Sudden weakness or collapse (they might collapse, recover briefly, then worsen)

Paralysis

Loss of bladder and/or bowel control

Blood in urine

Respiratory distress

Breathing difficulty

Drooling or frothing at the mouth

Trembling or muscle twitching

Vomiting

Dilated pupils

Difficulty blinking

Bleeding from the bite site

What are the dangers of snake bites on dogs?

Snake bit sites can be difficult to identify on dogs

Dogs may not show symptoms immediately after being bitten, but may have received a fatal dose of venom.

The longer the dog is left untreated, the more advanced the clinical signs and the lower the chance of survival

The dangers of snake bites on dogs are high due to their natural hunting instincts

Not all veterinary practices stock snake anti-venom. If you suspect your pet has been bitten, it is essential to ring ahead

Snake venom can compromise the dog’s blood coagulation (clotting) and can cause them to bleed to death. Snake bites can also cause internal damage to kidneys, muscles and the respiratory system

A dog’s reaction to a snake bite can vary and may not show for up to 24 hours, making it hard to know if they’ve been bitten. Even experienced vets often can’t confirm a bite from symptoms alone and must test with a snake identification kit.

 If you have witnessed your dog being bitten by a snake, seek immediate veterinary attention. The longer your dog goes without treatment, the lower the rate of survival. If you have seen your dog playing with a snake and your dog collapses but then gets up immediately and appears to be fine – call your nearest vet to check if they have snake anti-venom as it is likely your dog has been bitten.

Cats:

Sudden lethargy or collapsing

Difficulty walking or hind-leg weakness

Drooling

Vomiting

Enlarged pupils

If you ever suspect a bite, don’t wait! Even if your pet isn’t exhibiting symptoms, get to a vet immediately. Snake venom acts fast, but so does antivenom, especially when given early.

What to Do

Keep your pet still and immobilise them

Take them to the vet immediately

90% survival rate if seen by a vet within a couple of hours

Keep calm as your pet needs you to be strong for them

If the snake is dead, if you can take a photo BUT only if safe

Phone your local vet and let them know you are on your way (in case they do not stock snake anti-venom they will be able to point you towards a vet that does)

If the bite wound is on the face or neck, remove your dog’s collar as the area may swell

Attempt to reduce your dog’s movement and activity

Carry your pet to the car. Do not allow your pet to walk if you can help it. Again, any restriction of movement helps.

Transport your pet to a vet immediately and call the clinic to let them know you are on the way. They may also provide additional instructions.

If you have seen a snake in the vicinity of your pet, and are unsure if they have been bitten, it is always better to take them to the vet for an assessment. If caught early, snake bites can be successfully treated.

What NOT to to do

Do not wash the wound

Do not approach the snake

Do not panic

📸 Safety Tips for Outdoor Sessions (and Everyday Adventures)

As someone who works with pets in natural environments, I always take precautions during photoshoots and I recommend you do the same when you're out adventuring with your fur baby.

Here are a few simple tips:

Stick to clear paths: Avoid tall grass, wood piles, or dense bush where snakes may be hiding.

Keep pets leashed: Especially in unfamiliar areas.

Avoid dawn and dusk: Snakes are more active during these cooler times.

Train a strong recall: Especially for dogs — it could save their life.

Know your local snakes: Different regions in Australia have different snake species.

During photo sessions, I’m always scanning the area and staying alert to the surroundings.

Safety is the top priority.

Our pets trust us to keep them safe, and when we head outdoors. Being snake-aware is part of that responsibility.

Snake bites are scary but with fast action and a bit of knowledge they don’t have to be fatal.

If you’re planning a session with me this spring or summer, I’ve got safety top of mind and we’ll always prioritise your pet’s well-being.

Until then, give your furry friend a cuddle and keep those paws safe.

Contact

NoelineR Photography

Noeline is a pet and family photographer based in the Outer West of Melbourne and available for photography sessions around Melbourne, Geelong and other areas in Regional Victoria.

Photographer | Animal Lover | Safety First Always