A snake problem in Ipswich, Australia gained international attention after a five-year-old Staffordshire Terrier, named Milly, protected her “little brother,” a five-month-old, fellow Staffordshire Terrier, named Tonka, from a snake attack.
“She seemed to have protected her little brother Tonka, who didn’t get any venom,” Madeline Mills said of Milly who suffered numerous bites on her neck and legs (via 9News).
Mills also warned her neighbors on a public city watch Facebook page. “BE CARFUL (sic) It’s spring and snakes are out and about….My two babies are in vet hospital, one is in a critical condition,” she wrote. “Confirmed Brown snake by snake catcher.”
The dogs’ inseparable bond is being tested as Tonka was cleared to go home while Milly still remains under veterinarian supervision to be monitored for organ failure.
“As a paramedic I’ve seen a fair share of brown snake bites. It’s so frightening when it’s in your own home and to hurt my fur babies is a different story,” Mills said.
Mills also states this attack is just part of living in Australia. “Like any other Australian, you just have to be careful,” she said. “It’s important to learn the basics of snakebite first aid, and to know the number of your local snake catcher.”
What To Do If Your Dog Is Bitten By A Snake
(Picture Credit: RugliG/Getty Images)Milly and Tonka’s ordeal reminds us all, as dog parents, to take precautions with our pets when it comes to dangerous wildlife.
VCA Animal Hospital recommends the following actions if your dog is bitten by a poisonous snake:
- Muzzle your dog to avoid being bitten. Snakebites are painful, and your dog may try bite out of discomfort.
- If possible, carry the dog rather than allowing them to walk.
- Keep your pet quiet and warm on the journey to the veterinarian.
- Try to keep the bite wound at or below the level of the heart to reduce blood flow to the area.
Has your dog ever encountered a snake? Do you think your dog would protect family members from a dangerous animal like Milly did? Let us know in the comments below!
