Patient Story: Life Saving Snake Bite Treatment

Case Spotlight: Rika’s Journey

Rika presented to the Animal Emergency Service team at our hospital in Jindalee with an acute onset of wobbliness, severe panting and lethargy. Given her sudden deterioration, the team acted quickly to stabilise her and begin investigations.

Further testing revealed urine changes highly suggestive of a Red-bellied Black Snake envenomation - a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Despite initial treatment, Rika’s condition worsened while in hospital. She became fully recumbent, lost her gag reflex and showed signs of neurological depression. Her breathing remained moderate, with stable oxygen levels, but concerns grew around reduced urine output and possible acute kidney injury.

Due to the seriousness of her condition, it was in Rika’s best interest to be transferred to the Veterinary Specialist Services team at Jindalee for expert, ongoing intensive care. At the time of transfer, Rika was dull, depressed, mildly oxygen-dependent, tachypnoeic and weak, with characteristic “port wine” urine. 

Rika received around-the-clock support from the VSS Jindalee team including:

• Oxygen therapy
• Intravenous fluid therapy
• Urinary catheterisation and bladder care.

After four days of intensive care, we’re so happy to share that Rika made a remarkable recovery and was able to return home - much to the delight of her overjoyed mum and dad.

This case is a powerful reminder of how critical early recognition and rapid action can be. We’d like to sincerely thank Rika’s owners for their quick thinking in seeking immediate veterinary attention - it truly made all the difference in saving her life.

It also highlights the incredible teamwork between our Animal Emergency Service Jindalee team and the Veterinary Specialist Services team. Collaboration like this allows us to provide seamless, lifesaving care when it matters most.

While we are moving out of peak snake season, the remaining warmer days mean that risk is still present. Staying vigilant and seeking prompt care if you notice any unusual signs in your pets can save lives.

Well done to everyone involved - and welcome home, Rika!