What can I do for a canine with copperhead bites?

Answer by  Lottadogs (1258)

For a snake bite the best option is to see a vet. Some people feel giving Benadryl at a dose of 1-2 mg per pound of dog may help.

Answer by  dhuoda (1431)

Prevent the dog doing strenuous exercise. Get the dog to a vet as a precaution. Copperhead bites are rarely fatal in dogs. Anti venom may not be needed.

Answer by  Jenno (57)

Take the dog to a veterinarian immediately. They should have or be able to acquire antivenin to counteract the toxicity, and will be able to treat the wounds themselves to prevent them from becoming infected. They can also rehydrate your dog and prevent him or her from going into shock.

Answer by  classc1 (41)

First priority is to stay calm and to try to keep your pet calm. If your dog is small enough for you to carry, avoid having him walk around as much as possible. The second priority is to get to a veterinarian right away. To reduce the spread of toxin, use an ice pack on the area if possible.

Answer by  Pookie24 (74)

You should take them to the vet. Copperhead bites cause extreme swelling, so if the bite is near the mouth or neck, hurry, because some sort of anti-inflammatory would need to be used. Antibiotics may be needed for the secondary infection as well, which you get from the vet.

Answer by  Sinefey (457)

Seek immediate veterinarian care! In small dogs it is more likely to be a fatal bite. Copperheads are venomous, even if the dog doesnt die of the venom, it is extremely painful and tissue damage occurs, which could result in loss of use of the limb or secondary infections. One bite is worrisome, "biteS" is "rush to emergency care" serious.

Answer by  champaign9497 (11977)

Take it to the vet they can treat them much better than anything you can buy of from the shelf in the store.

Answer by  Teresa32 (314)

Copperhead bites aren't as deadly as rattlesnake bites. Just clean the wound to help with infections and take your dog to your vet.