If you find an injured garter snake, the first thing to do is to get its care information. The second thing you need to do is create a first aid kit for your pet garter snake so that you can treat them when needed.
Thirdly, set up a space for your injured animal and clean and disinfect their wound according to instructions from a veterinarian or other expert who knows about these things.
Finally, make sure that the baby garter snake has enough food and water while they recover from their injuries.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Properly assess the injury and seek professional help |
| Prioritize the safety and well-being of the injured snake |
| Avoid unnecessary handling and keep a safe distance |
| Contact local wildlife rehabilitation centers or experts |
| Promote responsible interactions and coexistence with wildlife |
Get The Animal’s Care Information
First and foremost, make sure that you get the animal’s care information. Taking a picture or two of your snake is a good way to document its appearance and help with future identification.
You should also record the date, time, length, weight (if applicable) and sex of your snake. Other useful information may include any distinctive features like color patterns or markings.
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Make A “Garter Snake First Aid Kit.”
A first aid kit is a must for any snake owner. It should include a plastic container with air holes in the top, a heating pad (never use direct heat), a thermometer that measures both ambient and internal temperature of the snake, a snake hook (to move them around without touching them), a snake trap for when you need to relocate an injured or sick animal, and lastly either a snake net or bag depending on how large your snake is.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Snake Container | A secure and well-ventilated container to temporarily house the snake. |
| Sterile Gauze | Non-stick gauze pads for cleaning and covering wounds. |
| Antiseptic Solution | An antiseptic solution or wipes to disinfect snake bites or wounds. |
| Tweezers | Fine-tipped tweezers for gently removing debris or foreign objects from wounds. |
| Snake Hook | A snake hook or snake tongs for safe handling during first aid procedures. |
| Reptile Safe Adhesive | Reptile-safe adhesive for securing bandages or dressings. |
| Heat Pad | A portable heat pad to provide warmth during transportation or for reptile stress relief. |
| Snake Identification | A laminated snake identification guide or manual for quick reference. |
| Emergency Contact List | A list of emergency contact numbers, including local veterinarians or wildlife experts. |
Set Up A Space For The Injured Garter Snake
The first thing you need to do is create a space for your injured garter snake to recover. A quiet, dark, warm environment is the best way to help your snake heal quickly and easily.
It’s important that you provide an appropriate container for your snake. You can use a box or container that is small but large enough for the reptile to move around in comfortably without becoming trapped or overheated.
A shallow plastic container works well because it allows plenty of air circulation while still protecting your pet from predators and other dangers outside of its enclosure.
A small blanket or towel will also come in handy as bedding material for the injured garter snake; this helps keep it warm while also providing some privacy during recovery time (remember that garter snakes are typically very shy).
Finally, make sure you have an appropriately sized bowl filled with water within reach so the animal can drink when necessary (you shouldn’t need more than one bowl unless there are multiple snakes recovering at once).
Clean And Disinfect The Wound
You should clean your injured garter snake’s wound. Garter snakes don’t have sweat glands and can’t cool themselves off by sweating, so they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature.
The hotter it is outside, the more important it is to keep your snake’s body temperature down. That means making sure there isn’t any dirt or debris in its cage and keeping its water source full at all times.
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Feed An Injured Garter Snake
If your snake is injured, it’s important to keep him fed. You can do this by feeding your garter snake a small meal every day.
Keep in mind that an injured snake will not be able to eat as much as an uninjured one can, so you may need to adjust the amount of food you give him accordingly based on his size and appetite.
Garter snakes are generally carnivorous animals and will prefer live insects such as crickets, earthworms or slugs (though they can also be fed dead mice).
| Feeding Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Assist-Feeding | Providing food directly to the snake’s mouth using tools. |
| Blenderized Diet | Blending food into a liquid or soft consistency for easy consumption. |
| Nutritional Supplements | Administering supplements to ensure proper nutrition. |
| Force-Feeding | Guiding or assisting the snake to consume food forcibly. |
| Slow-Feeding | Offering smaller, more frequent meals to aid digestion. |
Recover The Wound With A Bandage
If you are not sure of the type of snake you have, it is best to leave it alone. If you do try bandaging a snake, make sure to keep it still while applying the bandage.
The first thing that should be done is place the snake in a secure container and release any tension on its body by lifting both ends up slightly so that they are not parallel. This will help keep the snake from moving around as much while applying the bandage.
Next, cut away any excess material from your roll of tape until only about six inches remain at each end of your roll (this will give you plenty for taping).
You can also use strips cut from old shirts or bed sheets instead if desired; just make sure no part touches anything but skin when dressing an injury!
When applying tape over an open wound where infection may have already set in (such as with cottonmouth bites), dress with gauze first before wrapping with tape so that direct contact occurs between gauze and wound rather than between bare flesh and adhesive surface which could cause further injury upon removal later on down stream when things start looking better again!
| Bandage Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Non-Adhesive Bandage | Self-adhering bandage that does not stick to snake scales. |
| Gauze Pad | Sterile gauze pad for covering and protecting the wound. |
| Medical Tape | Gentle and hypoallergenic tape to secure the bandage in place. |
| Self-Adhesive Wrap | Elastic wrap that sticks to itself for easy and secure application. |
| Liquid Bandage | Protective liquid that forms a flexible barrier over the wound. |
Treating Shock In An Injured Garter Snake
Shock is a serious condition that occurs when a snake’s body cannot maintain normal electrolyte levels. This can be caused by a number of factors, including an injury or infection. If you find that your snake is suffering from shock, it’s important to seek medical attention.
If you’re concerned about treating shock in an injured garter snake yourself, here are some steps you can follow:
Keep the snake warm by wrapping it in towels or placing it in a box with heat lamps pointed at its body. Use a heating pad underneath the cage if possible; do not use hot water bottles as they can lead to burns on their bodies!
Provide clear fluids (such as Pedialyte) if the snake will take them without vomiting them up immediately afterward; however avoid any feedings until after medical attention has been obtained to avoid further complications like regurgitation or constipation due to dehydration.”
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Responding To Other Common Problems In Injured Animals
Don’t panic! Even if the animal is unconscious or unable to move, there are still things that can be done to help.
If the animal has been hit by a car and is bleeding, try to get it off the road before you proceed. Call 911 if you cannot stop the bleeding yourself and know how to do so safely (e.g., don’t put pressure on a wound).
If an injured snake is severely injured and doesn’t have time for treatment at a veterinary clinic, keep it warm and comfortable until help arrives.
However, if possible, take it with you in case its injuries are less serious than they seem; this way at least one veterinarian will be able to treat it properly.
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Getting Help From A Garter Snake Expert
If you’re not sure how to take care of an injured garter snake, don’t worry! You can always call a wildlife rehabilitator or your local veterinarian for advice.
If you want to learn more about garter snakes in general, there are plenty of experts online who would be happy to talk with you about their experiences and answer any questions you may have.
When the unfortunate happens and you need to arrange a dignified farewell for your beloved snake, consider the options for snake cremation services. Our comprehensive article discusses the process, costs, and considerations involved in this sensitive matter
Conclusion
Remember, if you’re not sure what to do with an injured garter snake, it’s best to contact a local expert.
If you live in the United States, you can find your local wildlife rehabilitation center here. If you live outside of the United States, check with your local veterinarian or animal welfare organization for help.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources related to the topic of injured garter snakes:
Injured garter snake: Tips for short-term care: This forum thread provides valuable tips and advice on how to care for an injured garter snake in the short term, offering insights from experienced snake owners.
Wild garter snake injury: In this community discussion, members share their experiences and suggestions for dealing with injuries in wild garter snakes. It provides insights into common scenarios and possible approaches to help injured snakes.
Wild common garter snake saved from life as a pet: This blog post narrates a real-life story of rescuing a wild common garter snake that was kept as a pet. It sheds light on the importance of leaving wild snakes in their natural habitats and the potential consequences of attempting to domesticate them.
FAQs
How can I identify if a garter snake is injured?
Garter snakes may exhibit visible signs of injury, such as wounds, cuts, or deformities. They might also display abnormal behavior or difficulty moving. If you suspect an injury, it’s best to consult a wildlife expert or a veterinarian experienced in reptile care for proper assessment.
What should I do if I find an injured garter snake?
If you encounter an injured garter snake, it’s essential to prioritize its safety and well-being. Keep a safe distance, avoid handling the snake unnecessarily, and contact local wildlife rehabilitation centers or experts who can provide guidance on how to proceed.
Can I treat an injured garter snake at home?
In most cases, it’s advisable to seek professional help when dealing with an injured garter snake. Experts with experience in reptile care and wildlife rehabilitation possess the knowledge and resources necessary to provide appropriate medical treatment and rehabilitation for injured snakes.
How can I prevent injuries to garter snakes in my area?
To minimize the risk of injuries to garter snakes, it’s crucial to maintain their natural habitats and avoid disturbing their environment. Educating others about the importance of coexisting with wildlife and promoting responsible interactions can also contribute to their well-being.
Are there any legal considerations when dealing with injured garter snakes?
Laws and regulations regarding the handling and rehabilitation of injured wildlife, including garter snakes, may vary depending on your location. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with local wildlife protection and conservation laws and seek guidance from relevant authorities or wildlife organizations to ensure compliance.
I am Dr Hellen James a veterinarian, pet lover, and writer. I have many years of experience caring for pets, including dogs, cats, birds, and fish (and even axolotls!). I love spending time with the animals in my life, especially when they are sick or need love.