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My dog's nose is swollen after a copperhead bite. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Male | neutered

My beagle was bitten on the nose by a copperhead about a month or so ago. We’ve waited for the swelling to go down, but it hasn’t yet. His nose looks like it’s getting worse, & looks like it’s going to rot. What can I do for him?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on July 31st, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The main problem with bite wounds is that they can get severely infected. I definitely understand your concern. I highly recommend that you have Cop evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to start medications for inflammation and antibiotics if an infection seems likely. Good luck and have a wonderful day!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 13th, 2019

    Hello. I think you can safely say that Jagger will not die from his snake encounter, but he really needs to be on antibiotics. I would truly try to find a way to come up with some money. You can try CareCredit.com or Scratchpay.com as a payment solution, sell something on-line, or see if there are any friends or family members that can lend you some money. Again, Jagger will probably not die from this, but he will feel a whole lot better if he can receive some form of treatment for the snakebite. Good luck & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 5th, 2017

    If it all possible please or really should see a veterinarian, for pain medication and assessment. However if not possible-. Continue giving Benadryl until the swelling goes down, monitor for any signs of infection or sloughing of the skin. Copperhead bites can often cause infection or abscesses, or cause tissue to die and slough off. If this occurs please find a way to get bruiser to the veterinarian as he will need systemic medication. Ideally he should be on pain control right now however do not give over-the-counter pain medication. If he becomes too painful to eat then you will need to find a way to get him to a vet to get appropriate medication for him. Try to keep him fairly quiet for the next 24 to 48 hours and monitor his eating drinking urination and defecation. If he shows any signs of complications from the bite wound them please seek veterinary care. I hope Bruiser is feeling better soon. Thank you for using PetCoach. https://www.petcoach.co/article/first-aid-for-snake-bites-in-dogs/ https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/snakebite-envenomization

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