Many people enjoy taking their dogs on hikes, but nature can sometimes hide dangers that can seriously harm our furry friends.
This was the case recently when a dog was injured by a copperhead snake bite during a hike. A brave team of rescuers faced a ‘treacherous’ trail to save him.
During a hike at Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, Connecticut, a dog suddenly became unable to walk. Initially, it was believed that he had broken his leg.
According to Hamden Animal Control, a group assembled to carry the dog to safety on a stretcher. This team included two firefighters, two animal control officers, the dog’s owner, and a Good Samaritan.
It wasn’t an easy task: the terrain was described as ‘extremely treacherous,’ but they managed to carry the dog down the trail. Special recognition was given to firefighters Mike Onofrio and J.P. Christini, who reportedly did most of the carrying.
In a later update, Hamden Animal Control revealed that the dog had not broken his leg as initially thought but had actually been bitten by a copperhead snake.
Copperheads are venomous snakes found in the state park, inhabiting rocky hillsides, open woods, and edges of swamps and meadows. While they are rarely fatal to humans, their bites can be deadly for dogs.
Hamden Animal Control stated that anti-venom was given to the dog, and they were monitoring him, hoping for a full recovery.
This incident serves as a cautionary tale for pet owners, urging them to take precautions and acknowledge that they share the trails with venomous creatures.
Copperheads are known for their natural camouflage, which makes them hard to spot on the ground. It’s not uncommon for people or pets to step too close accidentally, leading to a painful bite.
Officials advise that while it’s challenging to avoid copperheads entirely, hikers can take some safety measures.
‘Just be aware of where you’re stepping before you step. Wear high-top boots to protect yourself, as they are close to the ground,’ said Hamden Animal Control Supervisor Barbara Godejohn in an interview with WFSB.
‘Keep your pets close to you. This is something that’s probably not avoidable. If you’re going to take your pet hiking, ensure you have the proper equipment and perhaps a snake bite kit if you know you’re in an area where venomous snakes are present.’
A big thank you to everyone who endured the difficult trail to save this dog! This story is a reminder to always be vigilant for hidden dangers like copperhead snakes when hiking with your pet!
Please share this story to raise awareness!
