From:
Pam Sessoms
Date: 2004-08-17 15:55:26 UTC
Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] Re: Snakebite/antivenom
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <Pine.A41.4.44+UNC.0408171153110.73638-100000@login2.isis.unc.edu>
Thanks, Dr. Murray!!
Robin in NC - yes, I know that antivenin is often not indicated in humans,
dogs, etc. The issue here is that this ferret did not survive with
supportive care, and the vet specifically told the owner that antivenin
could not be used with ferrets. It sounds like it's not officially
labelled for ferrets, but then again, very few things are, and that it
might have been useful to try. It is also quite expensive, but I suspect
that these particular owners would have payed for it. I do not know if
the emergency clinic even had it on hand - it can be hard to come by.
The ferret was in really bad shape by the time it made it to the clinic,
so her survival would have been doubtful under any circumstances.
Ferrets are mighty in spirit but physically quite small, and I doubt that
many would fare well with a venomous snakebite to the head.
Best wishes,
-Pam.