• Journal of Veterinary Science
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• v.23 no.6
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• pp.81.1-81.10
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• 2022

Background: Snakebites remain a devastating and life-threatening environmental hazard. While the management of snakebites has been well described in humans, few clinical data and guidelines exist for dogs, especially in Korea. Objectives: This retrospective study evaluated the clinical features of 70 dogs with snakebite wounds in Korea. Methods: The medical records of 72 dogs that presented to three animal hospitals from June 2008 to July 2021 were reviewed; among these, 70 dogs that met the inclusion criteria were enrolled. Their signalment, history, clinical signs, physical examination, blood analysis, treatment, and prognosis were also evaluated. Results: Of 70 dog owners, 35 (50%) witnessed the bite, with a mean time between bite and hospital presentation of 9.7 ± 4.1 h in 58 dogs. Blood smears were evaluated in 45 dogs, of which 28 (62%) showed echinocytosis. Anemia and acute kidney injury were found in 21 (29%) and 2 dogs (3%), respectively. A total of 37 dogs (53%) were hospitalized, 5 (7%) of which died. Conclusions: The most significant finding was the high prevalence of echinocytosis. The data from this retrospective study could inform the management of dogs bitten by snakes in Korea.

• Journal of Veterinary Clinics
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• v.24 no.3
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• pp.449-452
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• 2007

A 2 year-old intact male Shih-tzu dog was presented with a history of snakebite on the left upper lip. He was depressed and had swelling, erythema and pain around the left muzzle. Both mandibular lymph nodes were swollen. Fang marks were not clear, but there were scratch wounds and prolonged bleeding. Hemogram revealed neither thrombocytopenia nor echinocytosis. Increased CK value in serum chemistry and myoglobinuria in urine analysis meant muscle injury. With careful monitoring, fluid, corticosteroid, antihistamine and antibiotics were administered. After the application of ice pack and suction, local symptoms changed for the worse. However, any other systemic disorders were not identified. After 5 days, the facial swelling had resolved completely.