Most snake bites are from pit vipers, which are poisonous snakes
that are identified by their triangular heads, retractable
fangs, and a special heat-sensing pit between the eye and
nostril. North American pit vipers include five subspecies of
copperheads, three subspecies of water moccasins, three
subspecies of pygmy rattlesnakes, three subspecies of massauga,
and at least 26 subspecies of rattlesnakes. Water moccasins and
copperheads are found in the eastern United States and southward
through Texas. Rattlesnakes are found throughout the contiguous
United States, with the highest concentration in the south and
southwest. Snake bites tend to occur on the pet's head or neck.
Bites involving the trunk of the body have a poorer prognosis.
Snake bites may affect one or more body systems including the
cardiopulmonary system, the nervous system, or the coagulation
system. Usually, if the snake is not poisonous or the venom was
not injected, the pain, swelling, and bruising at the bite site
will be minimal. Varies.