Why crate training saved my dogs in a real-life snake emergency
- Deb from Busy Pawz
- Nov 19
- 4 min read
It was a normal workday in my office - dogs sleeping, me busy on my computer, calm vibes all around… until I heard a low growl coming from the laundry.
Now, Andy (one of our littlies) growls at life in general, so at first it didn’t register. But then something happened that did snap me out of autopilot - the three dogs lying quietly in the office all stood up at once.
Then Rosie, our eldest, stepped into the doorway and blocked Kip and Charity from leaving the room.
That's not normal dog behaviour. That’s communication.
So I got up and walked toward the door to see what was going on - and that’s when I saw it.
A red-bellied black snake sliding from the laundry into the bathroom. My heart nearly launched out of my throat.
But even in that WTF moment, I wasn’t panicking about my dogs.
Because I had a plan. They had the skills. And our crate training paid off.... again!
When Crate Training Becomes a Lifesaver
The moment I spotted the snake, my priority was clear: get the dogs to safety. And because we’d already done the work during calmer times, they responded instantly. All four dogs zipped into their crates without hesitation - it is second nature. That kind of response doesn’t happen by chance. It happens because their crates are safe, familiar, and rewarding. They didn’t hesitate. There was no panic, no confusion, just calm cooperation in the face of a serious emergency.
People often think of crate training as a training “extra.” Something optional. Something for puppies. Something that might be useful… but not essential.
It is absolutely essential.
Crates aren’t just for toilet training. They are:
• A safe zone in emergencies
• A controlled space for vet rest or injury
• A way to limit access when tradies/visitors come
• A support tool during storms, fireworks, or stress
• A predictable routine that builds emotional safety
And if you live rural or semi-rural alongside snakes, ticks, spiders, toads - crate training is peace of mind.
Even in suburbia - snakes are turning up more and more in homes, and emergencies don’t discriminate by postcode.
And yes - the snake had come in through the doggy door. 😳
It Only Works If You Train It
Crates don’t magically become a comforting space. The dog needs proper exposure, calm reinforcement, and positive associations.
My dogs flew into their crates without hesitation - that is the payoff of doing the work when things are calm.
If I had only ever used the crates for confinement or punishment, today would have looked VERY different.
A Few Practical Notes
When it comes to snakes and dogs, here are a few things to think about:
🐍 Emergency Plan
Have one. Know your local vet’s number and their after-hours options. If you suspect a snake bite, call ahead so they can prep the antivenom. Time is critical. Keep your dog calm and still, and try to stay calm yourself (you can fall apart later once they’re in good hands).
📍 Know Your Locals
Learn which snakes live in your area. Red-bellied black snakes, for example, are dangerous - they rank #9 on Australia’s most venomous snake list - but with prompt and proper treatment, including antivenom, many dogs survive. That’s not always the case with brown snakes.
💰 Vet Bills Can Be Brutal
A snake bite can cost thousands in vet bills and that’s if you’re lucky enough to get treatment quickly. When our girl Kenya was bitten by a brown snake a few years ago, being able to tell the vet, ‘do whatever you need to do’ was an absolute godsend. It saved her life. We’re insured with Bow Wow Meow who I highly recommend but no matter who you insure with be sure your policy includes coverage for snake bites and paralysis ticks.
🛑 Your Safety Comes First
It’s natural to want to rush to your dog’s side but if you get bitten, you can’t help them. So be smart. Contain the dogs, shut doors if it’s safe, and call a professional. Don’t take risks. You’re no good to your dog if you’re on the ground too.
🐾 Crate Training = Calm Control
When the unexpected happens, you don’t want to be chasing dogs. You want them to go to a safe place, quickly and without fuss. That only happens when we’ve built value in the crate over time. And that moment is worth every bit of training.
🧴 Snake Repellents & Realities
We’ve tried several snake deterrents and honestly, nothing has worked. Having said that, with this new entry point I’m using essential oils like cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, peppermint, and citronella near the doggy door (which will now be locked when we’re out). We also installed auto-closers on our screen doors after a snake wedged itself between the screen and glass last summer… but snakes are clever. They’ll find a way. That’s why a containment and response plan matters most.
☀️ Hot Days = Snake Days
They’re out looking for water and shade. Keep your yard tidy, water bowls up off the ground if possible, and always check bedding, mats, and shady corners. No matter how vigilant you are, an emergency plan is essential.
Final Thoughts
Today could’ve ended very differently. A snake in the house is every dog owner’s nightmare - but it didn’t turn into a disaster because my dogs had the skills before the emergency happened.
Crate training isn’t about limiting freedom. It’s about giving your dog a familiar, safe space when the world gets unpredictable. And sometimes that space can save their life.
So if you’ve been “meaning to crate train but haven’t gotten around to it,” consider this your sign.
It’s not just a training tool. It’s a safety plan.
And when things go sideways, you’ll be glad you have it.
Thanks for reading!
And as always, throw your dog a treat from us! (preferably outside the bathroom 😅)
Deb & the Busy Pawz Crew xo
P.S.
🚨 For this week only, I’m giving away my Crate Training eBook (normally exclusive to the Busy Pawz Resource Library) for free.
To grab your copy, head to the Busy Pawz Facebook page, comment “crate” and share the blog post, and I’ll send you the download link directly. 🎁
Let’s spread the word and keep more dogs safe - one crate at a time. 🐾
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