Snake in the grass?

Snake in the grass?


Taking Flicka for a nature ride can be great fun … unless snakes tag along. Fortunately, even poisonous snakes are generally not aggressive and will retreat when approached by people or animals.

But horses walking through tall grass or brush can step on or surprise a snake, resulting in a bite. Luckily, because of a horse’s large size and body mass, even bites by poisonous snakes are typically not fatal.

However, swelling from bites around the muzzle, head or neck can obstruct breathing. Bites on the legs can lead to serious secondary infections and damage to thehoof.

If you suspect that your horse has been bitten by a snake, seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Don’t waste time on first aid or folk remedies that typically don’t make things better — and can often make them worse.

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