| 1:00 PM–2:30 PM |
Snakebite Envenomations―They Are Not Just Bad Bee Stings (Part 1): The Who and What
This session is geared towards general practitioners and emergency veterinarians looking to better understand the principles of treatment of snakebite envenomations, especially the use of antivenom, and those unfamiliar with current standards of care of snakebite envenomations.
Dr. Pawlowski will give a brief overview of venomous snake species, characteristics, and distribution in the U.S. We will discuss venom composition, the effects of the different components, the signs/symptoms of envenomation, and the variability of species and individual bites. We will also cover neurotoxin effects and which species have it, as well as myotoxins, hemotoxins, and coagulopathic effects of venom. |
| 2:40 PM–3:40 PM |
Snakebite Envenomations―They Are Not Just Bad Bee Stings (Part 2): The How and Why
This session is part two of a session covering the principles of treatment of snakebite envenomations.
In this course, we will discuss initial treatment recommendations for supportive care and pain control, describe the characteristics, differences, and pros/cons of the three approved veterinary antivenoms, and briefly touch on human versions. This will include discussion of Fab’, Fab’2 and IgG antivenoms and the implications of treatment with each. We will also discuss the importance of early utilization of antivenom in treatment, as it is the only therapy that neutralizes venom, including when to initiate, how much to administer, and how patient size and snake species affects these decisions. Dr. Pawlowski will also examine some myths and misconceptions about antivenom use. In addition, we will discuss inappropriate treatment and the contraindications for using steroids, antihistamines, NSAIDs, and prophylactic antibiotics, examine mid-to-long-term effects of envenomation like necrosis, devitalization, and sloughing of tissue, potentially requiring surgical debridement—especially in delayed, under-, and inappropriately treated cases. Lastly, Dr. Pawlowski will present some recommendations for potentially preventing/protecting dogs from risks of envenomation, including aversion training and the rattlesnake vaccine. |
| 4:15 PM–5:15 PM |
Rattlesnake Vaccine: The Good, the Bad, and the Controversy
Get ready to hear hot takes from both sides on the pros and cons of the rattlesnake vaccine! Some believe that the rattlesnake vaccine has significant potential benefits, while others decry it as—pardon the pun—snake oil that can actually make things worse. We will discuss the history of the Crotalus atrox toxoid vaccine along with the directions, purported benefits, and side effects. We will examine the controversies about the vaccine, including concerns about the lack of challenge studies, and critically evaluate some recent articles suggesting lack of efficacy or even worse outcomes for vaccinated dogs. Lastly, we will also examine independent articles that demonstrate protective benefits. Dr. Pawlowski will provide insights into non-published studies as well as personal observations. |
