Watch out for snakes: pets suffer bites in the district

Dr Woodward’s warning comes as there has been an increased number of pets who have been bitten by snakes over the past two weeks.

“We have had a dramatic increase in the numbers of pets having encounters with snakes in the past two weeks,” Dr Woodward said. “We always get snake bites in pets in spring but this year has been particularly busy all of a sudden.”

With spring now in full swing the weather is starting to heat up and Dr Woodward suspects this may be the reason that the snakes are out and more aggressive than usual.

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“The other interesting thing is the recent bites have been occurring between 4pm and 7pm,” Dr Woodward said. 

“This may be that people are outside with their pets after work or that the snakes are more active in the late afternoon.”

Local Wildcare volunteer and snake catcher Rowan Hosken provides a free service to residents who contact Wildcare. Anyone who sees a snake they would like removed they can have it done for free by contacting Wildcare on 62991966. There are three volunteers in the Young area who are able to respond to calls in regards to native wildlife including snakes and reptiles.

“Keep an eye on it (the snake) and call Wildcare or a snake catcher as they can disappear quickly,” Rowan said. “Secure pets and children and if you’re really close stand still and wait for the snake to move.”

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Rowan said it is important to keep track of where the snake is as there is nothing worse than knowing a snake is on the property but having no idea where it has gone. Rowan advises locals not to attempt to trap or harm the snake themselves as that is when most people end up bitten and “you can’t just go out and kill them.”

Wildcare are holding a course for anyone wishing to be trained in snake catching and wildlife care later in the year. Information can be found at www.wildcare.com.au.