We need help with an injured garter snake. It is very young, we believe and about 15 inches long. We found it hardly moving mid-day yesterday (about 20 hours ago), with noticable injuries.

We believe that we had unknowingly struck the young snake with one of our tools. The crease in its head is very narrow (like from the blade of a hoe). It goes diagonally from front to back, and betwen its eyes. There appears to be an unnatural looking “bend” in its body, about 4 in. from its head.

Because the snake showed movement, and we could see its tongue flicking, we brought it inside from about 40 degree weather. It is in a box with onion grass. We are using an eye dropper to put water drops into its open mouth (which appears to be out of kilter).

This morning, there was a drop of blood on the crease. It’s mouth is continually open, and we can see the red interior.

We want to do the right thing. We are very concerned that the snake is suffering, and the injuries cannot heal. Can anyone please advise us if you have any experience with a snake with this kind of injury?

We are in the Cincinnati area. Can you recommend someone who would know how to help, or what to do? We could also take photos and e-mail them. Thank you.