The Victorian government has warned people to be aware of snake activity after a spate of recent incidents in which dogs and cats have been bitten by the reptiles.



The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning said snakes were emerging from winter hibernation and the recent exceptionally warm weather in Melbourne had increased interactions with people and pets.

The Lort Smith animal hospital in Melbourne has reported treating 20 pets for snakebites in October – more than the centre usually deals with in an entire year.

Tiger and brown snakes were responsible for most of the bites, the animal hospital said. Of the 20 dogs and cats bitten, 18 have survived – early detection of symptoms is crucial.

“Common signs are vomiting, salivating and tremors, and that will go on to produce weakness and collapse,” said Dr Andrew Kapsis, head veterinarian at the hospital.

“The earlier we start treatment and antivenom, there’s a good chance they will survive ... generally we need them within an hour of being bitten for the best prognosis.”

Snakes become active in spring as they search for a mate and look for food such as mice and small reptiles after their winter hibernation. They can be found near waterways and coastlines, as evidenced by the tiger snakes recently spotted on St Kilda beach.

“Being aware that snakes may be around and being informed about how to react to them is very important at this time of year,” said Samantha Moore, wildlife officer at Victoria’s Department of Environment.

“Generally, if you are aware that snakes could be about and watch out as you walk about, you should be quite safe.

“Although snakes should be treated with due caution by people and pet owners, they are much more interested in getting to safety themselves. Snakes sometimes bite pets, usually when the pets have disturbed the snake.”

Moore said people should stay calm if they saw a snake, not attempt to capture one of the animals. She also recommended cutting lawns and tidying up around the house to reduce favoured shelter areas.

With humans and reptiles out sunning themselves at the same time, people are more likely to interact with snakes as urbanisation extends into their habitats.

“The more we encroach into their territory, the more this will happen,” said Dr Joanna Sumner, a herpetologist at Museum Victoria. “Snakes are looking for sunny spots, so places such as bike paths are ideal for them. On sunny days it’s best to be vigilant, walk around them and don’t freak out. They are unlikely to come after you.

“If you get close they will look to disappear but if you surprise them or block off their escape route they can bite you. When dogs get bitten it’s because they’ve got too close.”

Sumner said anyone bitten by a snake should wrap the wound, stay immobile and ask someone else to get them to hospital.

“Try not to kill snakes – it’s illegal to do so and they are also an important part of the ecosystem,” she said. “There’s a balance there, you want kids to play safely in the yard, but snakes will be around and we will have those interactions.”

If you or someone else is bitten, it’s best to call 000. If you need a snake catcher, the Victorian government has a helpline: 136 186.