How common are snake bites?
It is estimated that more than 6000 animals are bitten by snakes in Australia each year, mostly (78%) in rural areas. Of these 52% are cats and 44% are dogs with other species making up the remainder. The 6000 animal cases compares with 3000 people who are confirmed or suspected snake bite victims each year. So, especially on a population basis, many more dogs and cats are bitten by snakes than people! Therefore, the work of the Australian Venom Research Unit (AVRU) is vitally important to pet owners! Which are the most dangerous snakes? Brown snakes account for three quarters (76%) of all bites, are commonly found throughout mainland Australia, and are the most common cause of snake bite deaths in Australia. In addition, tiger snakes account for 18% of all bites (but over 50% of cases in Victoria and Tasmania) and black snakes account for 6% of cases. However, a wide variety of snakes can affect animals such as the copperhead and death adder. Click on these links to go to the general
