Steroids for a Canine Snakebite

Most dogs never meet a rattlesnake, but when they do, dogs are 20 times more likely to get bitten than humans, according to Rattlesnake Vaccinations. Dogs are naturally inquisitive, and they can't sense that some snakes are venomous. The usual treatment for canine snakebites is a steroid injection. Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can help reduce the symptoms of a poisonous snakebite. However, steroids also come with dangerous side effects.

  1. Canine Steroids

    • When dogs need steroids, veterinarians most often prescribe prednisone, a synthetic corticosteroid four times stronger than hydrocortisone. Vets may administer it orally; topically, directly onto the snakebite; or through injection. Prednisone is converted in the liver to prednisolone, a similar chemical. This conversion must happen for the medication to take effect, so if your dog has liver problems, then use another anti-inflammatory medication for snakebites.

    Emergency Steroids

    • If you live in a place with many poisonous snakes, then you may want to have prednisone around, in case your dog gets bitten. If a snake bites your dog, then call an emergency veterinarian immediately to advise you on dosage and administration. Most of the time, vets administer prednisone in pill form. Give the dog the amount that the veterinarian recommends, then clean the wound and encourage the dog to drink water. If the bite is in the head or neck area, then remove the collar, and take the dog to a veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment at the first opportunity.

    Intended Effects

    • Prednisone is part of a group of steroids known as glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoids occur naturally in the body as hormones. The adrenal glands produce glucocorticoids, and their purpose is to prepare the body for physical stress and exercise. Because snakebites cause a dog's skin and tissue to swell, prednisone can help reduce the swelling and the action of the venom within the dog's system.

    Side Effects

    • Though steroids are often the only choice to treat canine snakebites, they can have many unpleasant side effects, so don't use them for longer than necessary. A side effect of prednisone is increased thirst and urination. Prednisone can cause vomiting; gastric ulcers; pancreatitis; renal failure; and Cushing's disease, or hypoadrenocorticism. Because prednisone suppresses the dog's immune system, it will also make your dog more susceptible to other illnesses.