Although older dogs are similarly at risk, they are often less interested. However the following behavioural trait is more likely to manifest itself in older dogs. Hunting and territorial behaviours are to some extent breed-specific. If a snake moves through the yard these dogs are quick to attack it. In many cases they are successful, however as a dog's reflexes slow down with age there is an increasing likelihood of snakebite.
Cats are natural hunters and often find snakes.
A problem to owners of snake-catching cats is their habit of returning to the house with a live snake. Little will discourage cats from hunting snakes. Precautions Enclosures or backyards where dogs are kept in outer suburban and rural areas should be free of long grass and rubbish. This applies for the area surrounding those enclosures also. Dry dog food should be stored in such a way as to lessen its availability and attractiveness to mice.