Dr Jenna Ladd of Albury's Townsend Veterinary Clinic said a combination of spring rain and long grass could lead to more snake sightings in the coming months.

Vomiting, drooling, dilated pupils and an inability to walk are some of the signs to look out for if you suspect your pet has come in contact with a snake.

However, Dr Ladd said there's one sign in particular that should raise alarm bells for dog owners.

"If anyone has a dog that gets bitten by a snake, it falls over, and then gets back up again and seems fine, they need to be somewhere really quickly because they've always had a lethal dose," she said.

"At this time of year it's a better idea to walk dogs on leads.

"If they do come across a snake, just try and get away as quietly as possible without disturbing anything.

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"It's potentially going to be quite a bad year, they're out, they exist.

"We just have to manage the risk as best we can while enjoying time outside with our pets."

Dr Gabriel Xeros of the Hume Animal Hospital said cats also present their own telltale signs.

"Cats are little bit more resistant in that they can take a bit more venom than dogs can," he said.

"What you'll commonly see in cats is salivation or foaming of the mouth, maybe an abnormal meow, and if they're not completely collapsed you might find they have a bunny hopping gate.

"Cats are quite inquisitive and will often go out and find anything that moves.

"Dogs you can potentially train to be scared of snakes."

Bites from brown and red-bellied black snakes are the most commonly treated in this region.

Dr Xeros recommends avoiding walking pets near snake prone areas, including around long grass and by lakes and rivers this summer.

Both Border animal doctors agreed the first thing owners should do if they suspect a snake bite is contact their local vet clinic as soon as possible.

"It's much better to be safe than sorry," Dr Ladd said.

As we head into the warmer weather it's also a timely reminder to make sure pets have access to shelter and fresh water.