This article is combined from articles published in the December 2024 and February 2025 editions of Vetboard Victoria's newsletter. Content was current at the time of publication but there may have been changes since then, as rules, standards and professional and community expectations change over time. Readers are also referred to the Vet Board's current
Guidelines for appropriate standards of veterinary practice and veterinary facilities.
Snake bite concerns and considerations
Each year, the Board receives queries and complaints about animals who either died or required an extensive and expensive stay in hospital after being bitten by a snake.
Animal owners alleged that a snake bite diagnosis was considerably delayed or not made at all by a vet initially due to:
- non-veterinary staff undertaking triage
- vets/clinic staff not considering neurological and other symptoms as possible symptoms of snake bite
- vets not ordering or undertaking tests.
The complaints have highlighted the importance of clearly communicating with clients, rapidly diagnosing snake bite, and ensuring appropriate clinical management of the animal - including anti-venom where there is the prospect of saving the animal. Some issues to consider are listed below. Thinking about these issues before a case is presented to your veterinary practice may help to achieve better outcomes.
Focus on the patient
- Provide first aid and/or pain relief per POCTA Act s9(1)(c).
- Assess the condition of the patient. Look for signs of envenomation.
- Determine the probable outcome.
- Evaluate and decide on appropriate clinical management options.
Communication
- Inform clients in advance about your practice’s approach to snake bites.
- Be clear and concise about:
- patient condition and probable outcome
- all and recommended options
- costs of testing, anti-venom, hospitalisation
- payment options
- euthanasia per POCTA 24D(1)(b).
- Prepare written communication such as a handout.
Local conditions
- Know what type of snakes live in the area.
- Identify what type of snake may have bitten the patient.
- Assess if a diagnostic test is practical or available.
Logistics
- Determine if the patient needs acute care, 24/7 care or high-level monitoring.
- Assess if your practice can provide this level of care.
- Consider immediate referral if necessary.
Relevant guidelines