Cobra spits at Durban dogs: Nick Evans on what to do

--:--
When Nick Evans get calls for a Mozambique Spitting Cobra in a property where there are dogs, he always worries. Cobras don't attack dogs, but dogs attack them, and other snakes. If the dog does attack, they're in for a nasty surprise, as some of these dogs at a home in Hillary found out.
"It's like a snakes version of pepper spray!" says Nick.
"Most of the time the snake escapes unharmed. Most of the time."
And very, very rarely do dogs get bitten. They usually just get temporarily blinded. A far better result, of course if treated, than a life-threatening cobra bite.
IF YOUR DOG GETS SPAT AT BY A COBRA:
Firstly, get your dogs away from the snake. Then, with help from a family member, you need to rinse the venom out of the eyes with water. A hose pipe on low pressure or bottle of water works well. Don't use a bowl.
Rinse as best as you can, but holding a dog still for this can be difficult.
If you succeed, it's a good idea to take your dog to your local vet for a check up and eye drops to sooth the pain.
If you are not managing, take the dog to the vet, and they can maybe sedate it and treat it effectively. Find more here
29 Jun 2021 English South Africa Nature

Other recent episodes

Not 1, but 2 black mambas in Durban couple's bedroom!

In the thick of mamba mating season, a Durban man saw a black mamba snake slithering into his bedroom. Little did he know, it wasn't just one black mamba, but a happy couple. Two extremely venomous snakes on honeymoon in his Inanda house! Nick Evans has the details of what…
18 Feb 2020 12 min

Snake Rescue Extra: Please keep your dogs away from Black Mambas!

The Black Mamba is undoubtedly one of the most feared snakes in the world. This week on Snake Rescue Extra, snake expert and podcast host Nick Evans busts some common myths around these impressive snakes and warns about the dangers of you - or your animals - approaching them. Find…
4 Jan 2020 15 min