Blacksnake bite on a guinea keet--what to do?

[ella&clara]

I heard frantic cheeping and discovered that a black snake had come into the garage and into the brooder and had killed 3 keets and was biting another one. I jerked up the snake and saved the one it was biting (and killed the snake). The bitten keet seems fine aside from some bloody bite marks, but what should I do? I am sure it was a black snake, a non-venemous snake to people. Help!!

 

[ella&clara]

I finally found a vet who knew what to do and she said to wipe the injury with diluted betadine, which I did. Looks like the main problem is infection from the bite. Keet seems just fine still, and fought me when I tried to treat it, which I take as a good sign!

 

[MEchickenfarmer33]

you could try applying ointment or something. I think other than that there is nothing more you can do but give her antibiotics. She sounds fine and I think she should be ok from what you have described her as.

 

[ella&clara]

Thanks! I put some Neosporin on her, and called the manufacturer of the tetracycline I had, but they said it was for respiratory infections, not injuries, and that there aren't any antibiotics other than injectible penicillin that would help. I hope she'll be okay, still looks good.

 

[DeannaOR]

I've always been taught that you do not pack a puncture wound with ointment or creams. It hold moisture and makes a perfect breeding zone for bacteria.
You are way brave! Not sure I could have grabbed it. Kudos!

 

[ella&clara]

It all happened so fast, and poor "Mr Cuteypants," so named by my 6 year old, was looking at me pitifully while in the snake's mouth, that I just had to do it He (actually she) is now alive and well a month later!