Snakebites do not typically occur because the reptile is attacking or being overly aggressive. Rather, most are the result of the timid creature being startled and going into self-defense mode.

“Snakes are rarely aggressive, and nearly all bites happen because of self-defense,” said Mark Turner, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension wildlife specialist. “Many bites happen because someone is either trying to move or kill a snake, or because they step or place their hands somewhere they can’t see. Simply paying attention to your surroundings and leaving snakes alone are easy ways to avoid being bitten.”

The same can be said for pets and livestock that are bitten. The curious nature of dogs leads to unfortunate incidents, and horses may accidentally step on a snake or put their head down to look at the creature. 

In the rare event someone is actually bitten by a venomous snake, there are several things they should not do and one they definitely should.

“If you are bitten by a snake, simply stay calm, keep the wound elevated, and get to a hospital,” Turner said. “It is helpful if you can identify or take a picture of the snake, but it is unsafe and unnecessary to capture or kill the snake. Do not try to suck the venom out or cut the bite.” 

The advice also is true for pets, as they should be taken to the veterinarian immediately. There are a few first-aid tactics you could try on your way, however. 
 
“Transport your pet in a carrier rather than allowing them to walk. Keep them quiet and warm during the trip to the veterinarian,” said Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, director of Continuing Education at the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine.  

Contrary to old Western movies, tourniquets should not be applied because they can cause additional harm. While bites from nonvenomous snakes can cause swelling and bruising, bites from venomous snakes can have much more serious symptoms. 

“Generally, there is extensive swelling that spreads rapidly. The bite wound may bleed or produce a bloody discharge,” she said. “The bite wounds from the fangs may not be visible due to the swelling or the small mouth size of young or small snakes. Shortly after being bitten, dogs may demonstrate weakness, cool feet, pale mucous membranes and hyperventilation. The gums may turn pale or blue. It’s not uncommon for snake venom to also cause vomiting shortly after the initial bite occurs.” 

The quicker pet owners are able to get their animals to the vet the better. Bites on or near the head tend to be more severe than bites to the leg and paws. The same is true for livestock. 

“I don’t think you want to panic about snakes with horses. You have to think about how big they are,” said Kris Hiney, OSU Cooperative Extension equine specialist. “Something that could kill a small dog isn’t going to really hurt a horse. For horses, their biggest risk factor is if they get bit on the face.” 

A bite to or near the face can cause a lot of swelling and give the horse trouble with breathing. Bites on the face of your horse should be seen by your veterinarian as soon as possible. 

Extreme swelling of the bite to the face of a horse could close off air flow through the nose. Horses can only breathe through their nose and this could potentially suffocate the horse.