Snakes Flashcards
What are the two types of poisonous snakes we encounter?
crotalidae (pit vipers)
elapidae (coral snakes)
What snakes do we encounter is southern alberta/prairies?
prairie rattlers
where are coral snakes found?
south eastern us
What is unique about viper fang apparatus and their bite?
long and hollow, break (shed and regrow) - might see 4 holes
they can control venom amount
most bites are dry defensive bites
while 10-15% are big load of venom
What is unique about corn snake bites?
short fangs so often bite repeatedly or hang on
What happens if you get bit by a dead head?
full dose of venom
How do snakes bite?
full mouth stab
can lunge half length of body
rattle to worn
what are some general components/MOA of venom?
local tissue damage
coagulation effects
platelet effects
neurotoxin
what kills you from snake venom?
if NMJ blocker doesn’t cardiotoxin will
What is the most poisonous snake and why?
mojave rattlesnake
a lot of neurotoxin
What are the clinical signs seen?
edema/swelling (hypovolemic)
pitting edema in livestock and impede trachea
horses bit around nose can suffocate
immediate local pain blistering, blebbing bleeding, hemorrhage pulmonary edema renal failure myoglobinuria, hemoglobinuria
death less than 1h
What do cats often present with and why?
more resistant but often in worse shape b/c smaller and often offensive bite trying to eat
What is the best treatment?
remove collar (constricting)
immobolize limb
watch for signs of severe envenomation (vomiting, dyspnea, shock, paresis)
bring snake for ID
IV fluids cardiac monitoring analgesics lab results oxygen vasopressive as indicated (severe) tetanus prophylaxis (Severe)
what is not good treatment?
tourniquet ice suction alcohol aspirin
when is it appropriate to give anti-venom?
when systemic affects are seen
