I GET many calls from panicked pet owners, after their pet has had a nasty encounter with a snake. Sadly, it often does not end well for the pet or the snake. Here is a bit of info which sheds some light on this dilemma.
Dogs and cats
Dogs and cats are the two pets which most often have run-ins with snakes.
Cats are excellent hunters, and often bring small snakes inside, displeasing their owners. However, it would seem that cats know which snakes to leave alone – the big ones. I rarely get calls for cats being bitten by venomous snakes, or getting a dose of venom in the eyes. It does happen, but rarely.
In the dog’s case, the situation is often much worse. Dogs seem to be protective of their owners and their space and they are more likely to attack the snake, which almost always ends badly.
Mambas and cobras
The Black Mamba and Mozambique Spitting Cobra definitely account for the most serious confrontations with dogs.
If a Black Mamba were to bite a dog, it is generally fatal. I have not heard of a dog surviving a full envenomation from a mamba. They succumb rather quickly, and often do not make it to the vet. I have had many, many calls from poor pet owners who have lost three or four dogs to one encounter with a mamba. Mostly, dogs corner the frightened mamba and attack it. This often ends in death for both the snake and the dog(s) – a truly heart-breaking situation.
Mozambique Spitting Cobras don’t bite many dogs, but they often spray venom in their eyes, when cornered. This causes the dog great discomfort and pain. But the warning works, and fortunately, the snake usually escapes before further conflict.
Who’s fault is it?
It’s most definitely not the snakes fault and it’s not necessarily the dog’s fault either.
Snakes do not want to bump into dogs, they fear animals much larger than them. Snakes will try to get away, but if left without a choice, they will defend themselves.
Dogs and cats act out of instinct and this instinct is to attack, for whatever reason. That’s just how they are. It’s just a sad and unfortunate situation.
What can I do to prevent this conflict?
Unfortunately, there isn’t much one can do. This is Africa – we have many snakes around eating rats and frogs etc. There is no repellent which permanently keeps snakes away (keep the garden neat and tidy). If a snake is seen in the garden, keep your pets well clear of it, and call a local snake-catcher for advice.
Not being a dog or cat expert, I am not sure if one can train these animals to leave snakes alone. Contacting a dog trainer would be your best bet and that would probably be a wise call.
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