Snakebite Envenomations for the General Practitioner – They are NOT Just Bad Bee Stings!
Brief description of venomous snake species in the U.S. Venom composition, effects and variability of species and individual bites. Diagnostics for suspected and/or confirmed snakebites and treatment recommendations, supportive care and pain control. Describe the characteristics, differences and pros/cons of veterinary antivenoms. Importance of early utilization of antivenom in treatment as the only therapy that neutralizes venom- when to initiate, how much to administer and how patient size and snake species affects these decisions. Examine myths and misconceptions about antivenom.
Discuss inappropriate treatment including contraindications for steroids, antihistamines, NSAIDs and prophylactic antibiotics. Examine effects of envenomation- necrosis, devitalization and sloughing of tissue, potentially requiring surgical debridement– especially in delayed, under and inappropriately treated cases.
Recommendations that can potentially be done to prevent/protect dogs from risks of envenomation, including aversion training and rattlesnake vaccine (including controversies).
Geared toward general practitioners and emergency veterinarians looking to better
understand the principles of treatment of snakebite envenomations (especially the use of antivenom!) and those not familiar with current standards of care of snakebite envenomations.
- Learn what venomous snakes we have in US and are likely to encounter
- Venom types/components and effects
- Identifying/diagnosing an envenomation
- How to treat, and how NOT to treat an envenomation
- Antivenom – what is available and differences
