A snake bit the dog – it owes its life to the mailman

Luck was on the side of that beagle, who, instead of angry barking, always awaited the mailman with joy; it owes its life to him.

Ginger, the beagle, eagerly awaited the arrival of the mailman every day, as besides letters for her owners, she always received a treat and a generous amount of petting. One day, when Holle Keene Prigmore delivered the mail to the Georgia house, she noticed the injured dog not far from its assailant: a copperhead snake. It was fortunate that she happened to be at the house at that moment. So the dog received prompt care after being bitten by the snake.

The mailman didn’t hesitate: through the family house’s camera intercom system, he messaged the owners at their workplace about what had happened and immediately rushed to the nearest veterinarian with the injured animal. Thanks to the prompt assistance, the little dog survived the attack and is now recovering at home. The snake bite could have been fatal for the dog.

Immediately after the bite, swelling, redness, inflammation, and bleeding occur at the site. Another immediate symptom may be excessive salivation and foaming at the mouth. After a few hours, the dog may exhibit more severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, urination, sudden collapse, and paralysis. Prompt veterinary care can treat the bite, but the smaller the size of the animal and the later it is taken to a professional, the lower the chances of survival.

It’s better to be cautious

Fortunately, in our country, you generally don’t have to worry about wild animals attacking your dog in your garden. However, if you travel together somewhere, it’s advisable to research what kinds of animals that could pose a threat to your pet. But don’t forget that it’s not only wild animals that can endanger your pet. Local stray dogs and cats are also potential sources of danger. They can transmit serious diseases to your dog in case of a possible altercation.

Wherever you travel, keep the following in mind:

• Never leave the dog outside. Even if the terrain is familiar to them, they are safest within the four walls.
• Ensure proper protection against mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks, just as you would at home. This is especially crucial in exotic countries because blood-sucking insects can transmit various potentially fatal diseases, such as heartworm, which is becoming increasingly common even in our country.
• Bring enough dog food for the duration of your trip. If your dog is accustomed to a particular type of food, it’s not advisable to try something new during travel, as it might reveal sensitivities to certain ingredients.
• Take the proven medications with you. For example, if your pet tends to lick and ingest things that may lead to diarrhea, never embark on a journey without the usual remedies for such occasions.
• Check in advance where the nearest veterinarian and pet pharmacy are to your destination, and what examinations and treatments are available. Unfortunately, trouble can arise at any time. But if you can react quickly, you can get your pet to the appropriate care sooner.
• If you plan to travel for an extended period, it is advisable to consider getting pet insurance. If you insure yourself – and even your luggage – why leave your pet out of the equation?!