Protect your dog: Sea snake bites on the rise along NZ beaches

Heading to the beach with your dog is one of life’s simple pleasures. Lately, there’s an increasing and serious risk to be aware of: venomous sea snakes. And the danger isn’t just from live ones in the water, even a dead sea snake washed up on the sand can harm your dog.

Here’s what you need to know before your next seaside adventure.

More sea snakes are showing up in New Zealand

New Zealand has always been famous for being relatively snake-free. But in recent years, we’re seeing more yellow-bellied sea snakes (Hydrophis platurus) drifting onto our shores, especially after storms and rough seas. These highly venomous snakes normally live in tropical waters, but strong currents and changing ocean conditions are bringing them closer to home.

In fact, there have already been reports of sea snakes spotted on popular beaches like Ōmaha, where a dog attacked one before authorities could respond.

Why dead sea snakes are just as dangerous

It might seem safe if a sea snake looks lifeless, but don’t be fooled. Even after death, a sea snake’s venom can stay potent for hours. If your dog picks up a dead snake in their mouth or tries to chew it, they could still get a dangerous dose of venom.

Worse, if the snake’s tiny fangs puncture the inside of your dog’s mouth while they’re chewing or carrying it, the venom can go straight into their system, resulting in a real emergency.

And it’s not just dogs at risk, humans are too

Even a simple touch, if the snake’s fangs scratch the skin or broken skin comes into contact with venom, could be dangerous. Some bites can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Sea snakes are a protected species under New Zealand’s Wildlife Act 1953, which means it’s illegal to handle, harm, or interfere with them alive or dead. Most people avoid touching them out of respect for the law and the environment, but even more importantly, they should avoid them for their own safety.

Signs your dog might have been bitten

Sea snake bites can be hard to spot. The fang marks are tiny, and symptoms can kick in before you even realise anything happened.

Watch for signs like:

• Vomiting
• Trembling or shaking
• Sudden weakness or collapse
• Trouble breathing
• Whining or crying
• Wobbly legs or struggling to stand

Symptoms can appear quickly, sometimes within just 30 minutes. If you notice anything unusual, head to the vet immediately.

What to do if you think your dog has been bitten

• Keep your dog calm and still. Movement spreads venom faster.
• Carry them if you can.
• Get to an emergency vet straight away. Don’t wait to see if symptoms develop.
• Don’t try home remedies like sucking the venom or using a tourniquet, they don’t help and could make things worse.

Sea snake antivenom is available in some areas, but early treatment gives your dog the best chance.

How to keep your dog (and yourself) safe

• Keep your dog on a leash near the water, especially after storms.
• Teach a strong “leave it” command to stop them from investigating washed-up creatures.
• Stay alert for anything unusual on the beach, including snakes, jellyfish, pufferfish, and other hazards.
• Never touch a sea snake, even if it appears dead or sluggish.
• Report sea snake sightings to DOC immediately by calling 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Final thoughts

Beaches are still one of the best places to enjoy with your dog, but a little extra caution can go a long way. By staying aware, keeping dogs close, and respecting New Zealand’s unique wildlife, you’ll help keep everyone safe and help protect these fascinating (but dangerous) visitors to our shores.