by Callista Meyer

Created on: September 27, 2008   Last Updated: October 02, 2008

Even the calmest pet snake has the potential to bite without warning and treatment of a snake bite is vital, even if the pet is non-poisonous. The snake's actual size along with their teeth size will determine how much damage can occur during a bite. Regardless, of the size of your snake they all have the power and determination to bite if the need is there.

First, if the snake has not let go you will need to encourage the release. Most snakes will release on their own if they are just going for a bite. If not however, do not pull the snake to remove it! Snakes teeth are slightly curved to allow them to better grasp their prey and pulling could not only tear your skin but also break some of the snake's teeth. Instead hold the snake firmly behind its head and push it gently towards the bite, this will cause the teeth to extract easily from your skin.

While the above technique may work with a smaller snake, if the bite is from a larger than it maybe slightly more difficult. It is said that holding a cotton ball over the snake's face and pouring rubbing alcohol over it will cause the snake to release, but with a large snake attached to you, will you really want to search for the necessary items? You could try rubbing the snake's scales backwards, from the tail towards the head to force release.

You should be able to distinguish when a bite is simply a defensive one or an attempt at feeding. If your snake simply bites and releases, or bites and hangs on than it is merely a warning for you. IF your snake however bites, holds on and begins to throw coils at you than you will know it is a more serious situation and you need to remove that snake immediately from your body using whatever measures necessary to prevent the situation from worsening.

Following a snake bite you should first analyze the wound. Some snake bites are merely puncture wounds, while others could include lacerations that may need to be stitched by a physician. If the wound is deep enough for stitches, you should go to your emergency room and have it taken care of. If the bite is simply a bite, than you should take the following steps to ensure the wound is clean.

First, rinse the area with clear, cool water. This is the ideal way to cleanse the wound, not the ingredients in soap. Next, clean the wound, preferable with an antibacterial soap. During this stage you should avoid using peroxide or soaps containing alcohol as they may harm the healthy skin preventing proper healing. Dry the wound with a soft cloth avoiding vigorous rubbing (friction) to prevent further damage to the skin. Placing a bandage on the wound, creates a dark moist area perfect for bacteria to grow. If at all possible leave the wound to the air to encourage healing, if you're wound area will be in contact with other materials you should cover it.

OF course, if the snake that has bitten you is venomous or you are not sure, seek the help of a medical professional immediately.

While all animal bites can carry diseases, some especially common in snake bites are tapeworm, roundworm and salmonella. If you experience any unusual symptoms following a snake bite, be sure to speak to a physician. Remember, the most important rule is to rinse the wound with clear water as soon as possible following the initial bite.

Learn more about this author, Callista Meyer.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.