It's Snake Season
Spring is filled with challenges for dogs!
The Babies Are Out… And They Don’t Play Nice
If you’ve ever had a dog freeze, sniff, or pounce at something in the yard… this is the time of year to pay attention.
Because it’s not just “snake season.”
It’s baby snake season — and around here, that often means Copperhead babies.
And here’s the part most dog moms don’t realize…
👉 Baby copperheads are often more dangerous than adults.
They don’t meter their venom well. They strike fast. And they don’t give a whole lot of warning.
Where You’ll Find Them
You’re not just looking for snakes… you’re looking for snake environments.
Start noticing these areas:
• Leaf piles and mulch beds (their favorite hiding spot)
• Wood piles, stacked logs, or old landscaping debris
• Edges of wooded areas or tree lines
• Tall grass or overgrown brush
• Around rocks, stone borders, and garden beds
• Near water sources (ponds, drainage areas, damp soil)
• Under decks, sheds, or outdoor furniture
And yes… your backyard absolutely counts.
I’ve seen more dogs get into trouble 10 feet from the back door than deep in the woods.
Why Dogs Get Bit
It’s usually not aggression.
It’s curiosity.
Dogs lead with their nose… and copperheads sit still, blend in, and rely on camouflage.
So what happens?
Your dog gets close. Too close.
And that’s when the strike happens — usually to the face, muzzle, or front legs.
What It Can Look Like
Sometimes it’s obvious. Sometimes it’s not.
• Sudden yelp or cry
• Rapid swelling (especially face or limb)
• Lethargy or “not right” behavior
• Drooling
• Pain or reluctance to move
• Puncture wounds (not always easy to see)
And sometimes…
You don’t see the snake. You just see the reaction.
Are You Prepared?
This is one of those moments where having something on hand matters.
Not because you’re replacing veterinary care — you’re not.
But because what you do in those first few minutes can support the body while you’re getting help.
One thing I recommend having ready:
👉 A snake bite homeopathic kit
These typically include remedies like:
• Ledum
• Apis
• Arnica
• Lachesis (yes… made from snake venom itself)
They’re chosen to support:
• Tissue response
• Swelling
• Trauma
• Circulatory effects
I like the one from The Dog Breeder Store — simple, targeted, and easy to keep in your first aid kit. And my friend Paula runs it. Visit https://www.thedogbreederstore.com
I’ll ask again — what’s in your first aid kit??
Have experience with dogs and snake bites? Share with us!
