Page 25 - Intra Muros July Issue 2025

ESTATE EVENT

I have been bitten by a large rinkhals while
rescuing it from inside a generator – how
ungrateful! – and was discharged after
spending one night in high care. I didn’t
need antivenom treatment. I suffered
lots of bruising but no long-term damage,
thankfully.

However, dogs who’ve been bitten almost
always require antivenom – the same
antivenom as humans. Rinkhals are known
to frequently bite and kill small dogs, or the
dog suffers severe long-term liver damage.

In the event of a suspected envenomation
or venom in a dog’s eyes, seek help
immediately at a vet. If rinkhals venom
enters a human’s eyes, immediately flush
your eyes with copious amounts of water
for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Follow this
with a visit to a doctor to check for corneal
damage and receive further treatment, such
as antibiotic and anesthetic eye drops.

June and July is the breeding season for
rinkhals, so they are on the move during
daylight hours. Cyclists, pedestrians and dog
walkers are cautioned to keep a lookout as
the snakes may be trying to warm up in the
sun. When cold, they cannot move away
fast. Still, it’s best not to surprise them.
Grant Fairley

Sources
www.wikipedia.com
https://www.africansnakebiteinstitute.com/
www.reptilesmagazine.com

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