Dogs are naturally curious and territorial, which often leads to confrontations with snakes. Many dogs will chase, bark at, or attempt to kill a snake, significantly increasing the risk of being bitten. Venomous bites can be fatal if not treated immediately.
How to Protect Your Dog:
• Supervise your dog when outside, especially during peak snake season (Spring &Summer).
• Snake-proof your yard by keeping grass short, removing debris, and sealing gaps in fences.
• Avoid leaving pet food outside to prevent attracting rodents, a primary food source for snakes.
• Train your dog in snake avoidance – specialized trainers can teach dogs to stay away from snakes.
• Keep emergency contacts ready – Know your nearest 24-hour vet and have a snake catcher’s number handy.
Cats are natural hunters with a strong prey drive. They often stalk and attack snakes, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.Additionally, some cats have been known to bring snakes inside the house,putting humans at risk.
How to Protect Your Cat:
• Keep cats indoors or in an enclosed outdoor space to limit encounters with snakes.
• Provide entertainment – Cats that are mentally and physically stimulated indoors are less likely to seek out prey.
• Secure outdoor enclosures with fine mesh (6.5mm x 6.5mm)to prevent snakes from entering.
• Check garages and sheds before letting your cat roam, as snakes may take shelter there.
Rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, and other small pets are also at risk. While snakes don’t deliberately hunt pets, enclosures and food sources can attract them.
How to Snake-Proof Enclosures:
• Use fine wire mesh (6.5mm x 6.5mm) to cover enclosures.
• Elevate hutches and coops to make it harder for snakes to enter.
• Limit food spillage – Clean up leftover grains and food to avoid attracting rodents.
• Bring small pets indoors at night if possible, especially in summer.
If You See a Snake in Your Yard:
1. Stay calm – Most snakes will leave on their own if left undisturbed.
2. Remove your pets from the area – Prevent any interaction.
3. Call a licensed snake catcher – Do not attempt to remove the snake yourself.
4. Close doors and windows – If the snake is inside, keep it contained in one room until help arrives.
If Your Pet Is Bitten by a Snake:
• Seek immediate veterinary attention – Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
• Keep your pet as still as possible to slow the spread of venom.
• Do not attempt home remedies like cutting the wound or sucking out venom.
• Maintain a tidy yard – Remove clutter, mow the lawn regularly, and keep storage sheds organized.
• Control rodents – Snakes follow food sources, so reducing rodent scan help keep snakes away.
• Fence off water features – If you have a pond or birdbath,ensure it is not easily accessible to snakes.
• Install snake-proof fencing – While expensive, this can be highly effective in certain properties.
Snakes are an essential part of our ecosystem, helping control rodent populations and maintaining balance in nature. While we can't completely eliminate the possibility of encounters, taking precautions can greatly reduce risks for both our pets and native snakes.
If you ever need assistance with a snake on your property,contact Shire Snake Wranglers or another professional snake catcher to safely relocate the reptile.
