Snake Season in South East Queensland: What Pet Owners Need to Know

As the weather warms up across South East Queensland, snakes become more active, increasing the risk of our pets crossing paths with them.

For curious dogs and cats, a snake encounter can happen in seconds, whether they're exploring the backyard, investigating the garden or enjoying a walk through the bush.

We want our clients to know what to look out for, how to reduce the risk and, most importantly, what to do if they suspect their pet has been bitten.

Brown Snakes vs Black Snakes: Knowing the Difference

Eastern brown snakes and red-bellied black snakes are both found throughout our region. While both are venomous, the symptoms of a bite can present quite differently.

Brown Snake Bites: The Danger of Looking 'Fine'

One of the most concerning things about brown snake bites is that your pet may suddenly collapse, then appear to make a complete recovery.

They might become weak or unsteady on their feet, only to get back up and behave as though nothing has happened.

This doesn't mean they're in the clear.

A pet can appear perfectly normal after receiving a potentially fatal dose of venom.

Brown snake venom can affect blood clotting and the nervous system, with some pets developing paralysis that requires extensive veterinary care.

Recovery isn't always straightforward. Some pets require lengthy hospital stays, and complications such as bleeding, or respiratory failure can occur.  Every pet's recovery looks different.

If your pet suddenly collapses and then appears normal again, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Black Snake Bites: Signs to Look Out For

Red-bellied black snake bites can present differently, with affected pets often becoming dull, lethargic or weak.

Another important warning sign is a change in urine colour. Black snake venom can cause muscle damage, resulting in urine that appears dark brown or reddish.

It's also worth knowing that snake bite marks are incredibly difficult to find, particularly beneath a pet's fur.



Don't waste valuable time searching for puncture wounds. If you suspect a snake encounter, get your pet to a vet.

What Should You Do If Your Pet Encounters a Snake?

If you've seen your pet near a snake or suspect they've been bitten, seek veterinary attention immediately, even if they're acting completely normal.

Snake bite symptoms don't always appear straight away. In some cases, a pet may initially show no symptoms and have normal blood test results, only for signs of envenomation to develop more than 12 hours later.

That's why close veterinary monitoring for at least 24-48 hours following a suspected snake bite is so important.

If you suspect an encounter:

• Keep your pet calm and still. Carry them where possible to minimise movement.
• Contact your vet immediately. Let the clinic know you're on your way.
• Don't attempt to catch or kill the snake. This puts you at risk, too.
• Don't wait for symptoms. Early assessment and treatment can make a significant difference.

Your vet can perform testing to look for signs of envenomation and determine whether further treatment is required.

Why Monitoring Matters

Snake bites aren't always straightforward. Some pets recover relatively quickly, while others develop complications, including paralysis, blood clotting abnormalities, muscle damage or kidney problems.

An initial veterinary assessment also can't always rule out a snake bite, which is why ongoing monitoring is so important.

Unfortunately we aren't staffed 24 hours overnight. Depending on your pet's condition, we may recommend referral to a veterinary hospital with round-the-clock care to ensure they receive the monitoring and treatment they need. If you can’t do that, then we encourage our owners to watch their animals very closely over the next 24-48 hrs.

How Can You Reduce the Risk of Snake Encounters?

Unfortunately, there's no guaranteed way to keep snakes away from your property, particularly in regional and rural areas. They’re sneaky things!

However, there are some practical ways to reduce the risk:

• Keep your grass short. Regular mowing reduces areas where snakes can shelter.
• Clear away hiding places. Timber piles, overgrown gardens and general debris can provide shelter.
• Reduce what attracts rodents. Where there are mice and rats, snakes may follow. Spilt birdseed, chicken and guinea pig feed, food scraps and hay stored for livestock can all attract rodents.
• Keep dogs on leads during bush walks. Particularly where long grass or thick vegetation makes it difficult to see what's ahead.
• Consider snake-proof fencing. Specialised snake mesh can help reduce encounters, although installation can be a significant undertaking.
  

Do Snake Repellents Actually Work?

You may have seen snake repellents advertised as a simple way to keep snakes away.

Unfortunately, there's limited reliable evidence that these products work, so we don't recommend relying on snake repellents to protect your pets.



Keeping your property tidy, reducing potential food sources and supervising pets in higher-risk areas are more practical preventative measures.

When in Doubt, Get Them Checked

One of the most important things to remember this snake season is that your pet doesn't need to look unwell to be in danger.

They may collapse and recover, seem a little quieter than usual or show no signs of illness in the hours following an encounter.

If you suspect your dog or cat has encountered a snake, don't take a wait-and-see approach.

Contact Condamine Veterinary Clinic immediately for advice and assessment. If we're closed, seek assistance from an emergency veterinary hospital without delay.



Snake season is part of life in South East Queensland, but recognising the warning signs and acting quickly can make all the difference.

Written by Dr Dr Christine Stirling,

BVSc (Hons), MANZCVS, Owner and Veterinarian at Condamine Veterinary Clinic.

This article is general information only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. If you're worried about your pet, call us or your nearest emergency vet.