Snakes
and pets

Keep dogs and cats away from a snake. If contact or a bite is possible, contact an emergency vet immediately and do not wait for symptoms.

Separate your pet from the snake

If you spot a snake before your dog or cat reaches it, call your pet away only if you can do so without moving closer yourself. Bring pets indoors or secure them in a separate closed area. Do not send a pet back outside to investigate, and do not try to move the snake with a broom, hose or other tool.

If a bite is possible, contact a vet urgently

If a pet has had contact with a snake or you suspect a bite, phone an emergency veterinarian immediately and follow their instructions. A bite may not be obvious, and you should not wait for symptoms to appear. Keep the animal as calm and still as practical while arranging veterinary help. Do not delay care to identify, catch or photograph the snake.

Keep other animals and people away

Even if the snake is no longer visible, keep other pets inside and prevent access to its last known location. Ask family members not to search under outdoor furniture, garden plants or stored materials. If the sighting was in a shared yard, let others know where to avoid without approaching the area.

Information to give the vet and catcher

• Tell the vet when and where contact may have happened and how your pet is behaving.
• Tell the snake catcher your suburb and where the snake was last seen.
• Mention whether the snake is still visible and which areas are accessible to other pets.
• Only share a photo if one was already taken safely; never go back for one.

Planning safer time outdoors

Keep an eye on pets in gardens, especially near long grass, stored materials, sheds and boundary edges. Regular yard maintenance can improve visibility, but no outdoor area can be guaranteed snake-free. Read the home safety guide for practical property habits. If the snake is still on the property, ask about snake catching and removal while you keep animals away.