Envenomation and regional emergencies

Snake bite

Emergency
EMERGENCY. This condition can be life-threatening. Take your dog to a veterinarian immediately. See the Emergency & first aid chapter for triage.

Overview

Snakebite is a leading envenomation emergency in tropical and subtropical regions, and South Asia's burden is world-leading. In India, the 'Big Four' medically significant snakes: Russell's viper (Daboia russelii), common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), spectacled cobra (Naja naja), saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus). Signs vary by venom type: haemorrhagic (viper) = swelling, bleeding; neurotoxic (krait, cobra) = weakness, difficulty breathing, ptosis. TRUE EMERGENCY. Antivenom class treatment at any equipped vet or human hospital.

Non-prescriptive. This entry deliberately does NOT name specific drugs, doses, routes, or durations. Treatment decisions rest with a licensed veterinarian who has examined your dog and considered its history.
Draft — vet review pending. This entry has not yet been signed off by a registered veterinarian.
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