Besides Benedryl, are there any remedies you should carry with you on a walk in case you or your dog is bit by a snake? The answer is yes!
There are a number of natural and homeopathic remedies that can help provide temporarily relief if your dog is bitten by a snake. Take a look at a few of the most effective options:
1. Activated charcoal
Perhaps the most effective remedy for snake bites is activated charcoal. Add water to make a paste and smear on the bitten area. Multiple sites and veterinarians attest to success with this for any type of bite.
2. Osha root
Orally or topically, Osha root tincture has been used. From veterinarian Dr. Pat Jordan, who lectures in the Blue Ridge area: “Most copperhead bites are not bad at all, certainly not deadly.” She has seen Osha root, plantain and activated charcoal used.
3. Onions
Dr. Doyle, who worked on the Hopi Reservation, once tried an old-time remedy with success — apply chopped onions to the bite and strap it on there with a bandage.
4. Homeopathic snake bite kits
There are various homeopathic snake bite kits available. Ask your integrative vet for a recommendation.
Other remedies used with success and suggested by various veterinarians include:
- Lachesis mutus
- Crotalus horridus
- Cedron
- Echinacea
- Apis mel
- Ledum
- Vipera
- Belladonna
- Arsenicum album
As always with homeopathy, it is important to know enough about the different remedies to select the best one based on the reaction of the dog to the bite. If your dog has had a successful response to homeopathic remedies in the past, you can better select the acute remedy.
The best remedy of all is to maximize your dog’s health so his response will be minimal! Of course, if your dog is bitten by a snake, it’s important to seek professional medical care immediately. The above remedies can be used to lessen his symptoms until you can make it to a veterinarian.
