With a recent surge in snakebite incidents affecting dogs in KwaZulu-Natal, experts are urging pet owners to take precautions.
Image: Nick Evans/ Facebook
A growing number of snakebite incidents involving domestic dogs has been reported across KwaZulu-Natal in recent weeks, prompting renewed warnings from snake handlers and veterinarians.
Local snake rescuer and expert, Nick Evans said cases have not been limited to the Greater Durban area, with reports also emerging from inland regions, including the Midlands. The incidents involve several venomous species, including the Stiletto Snake, Black Mamba, Green Mamba, Boomslang, and Puff Adder. In some cases, dogs were also spat at by Mozambique Spitting Cobra.
Evans said most incidents occur when dogs encounter snakes in residential yards and instinctively attack them.
“When dogs see a snake, they almost always attack it. The snake will then defend itself, and despite its best attempts, it still gets killed in the process by the dog,” he said. “Both animals are acting out of instinct.”
He warned pet owners against allowing dogs to engage with snakes under any circumstances, noting that bites from highly venomous species can be fatal.
“Never let your dog out to kill a snake. Your dog may never return,” Evans said.
He advised that if a snake is spotted in a yard, pets should be secured immediately and a professional snake remover contacted. If a dog is already confronting a snake, owners should attempt to distract or call the animal away without placing themselves between the two.
Veterinarians have also urged pet owners to seek urgent medical attention if a bite is suspected. Symptoms such as swelling, vomiting, excessive drooling, or signs of distress may indicate envenomation.
Evans cited a recent case in Queensburgh, where a dog bitten by a juvenile Black Mamba survived after receiving antivenom treatment. He said the outcome highlighted the importance of rapid veterinary intervention.
Pet owners are encouraged to contact veterinary practices in advance when transporting an injured animal, as some facilities may refer critical cases to better-equipped clinics.
Evans is currently compiling a database of snakebite incidents involving pets in KwaZulu-Natal to better understand patterns and improve response efforts. The database includes cases of venom being spat into dogs’ eyes by cobras.
He has called on veterinary practices and members of the public to assist by reporting cases, including details such as the date, location, snake species, symptoms, and outcome.
“These incidents are inevitable living in Africa,” Evans said. “Keeping yards neat and free of debris may reduce the likelihood of snakes entering residential spaces, but there is no guaranteed repellent.”