Did you know that snakes are more active in Summer? As we go outdoors, take a stroll or go on hikes while enjoying the heat of the sun, it is important to remember that Hong Kong is home to around 50 species of snakes! According to the Agricultural, Fisheries and and Conservation Department of Hong Kong, around 8 of the 14 venomous snakes in the country have fatal bites.
Snakes don’t usually attack unless they are threatened. Dogs, given their curious nature, tend to startle them which can result in attacks. Some of the venomous snakes found in Hong Kong including the:
Venomous snakes found in Hong Kong
- Bamboo Pit Viper
- Chinese Cobra
- King Cobra
- Many-banded Krait
- Banded Krait
- Mountain Pit Viper
- Coral Snake Mountain
- Tonkin Pit Viper
- Redneck Keelback
Clinical signs of snakebites:
Non-venomous snake bites may cause localized pain and swelling in the bitten part of the body.
Venomous snake bites: Bites of crotalids or vipers result in severe local tissue damage that spreads. The tissue becomes discolored, painful, with fluids oozing from the wound and tissue sloughing may also occur. Bites from elapid snakes like cobras, kraits and coral snakes result in systemic neurologic signs, including muscle paralysis and respiratory failure.
What to do if your dog gets bitten by a snake?
- If possible, take a photo of the snake from a distance
Most snakes in Hong Kong are non-venomous. Taking a photo of the snake can help the veterinarian determine the possible complications and treatment. Remember never to try to catch, handle or hurt the snake, as bites to humans can cause serious injuries or in severe cases, be fatal. - Do not apply tourniquet to the bitten area
- Act fast! Rush to the nearest veterinary emergency hospital.
At Harvest Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital, we are ready 24/7 for emergencies like snake bites. HVSEH carries antivenin for the species of venomous snakes found in Hong Kong and has a dedicated 24/7 nursing team. For inquiries you may call us at 3102 8528.
