Rattlesnakes – Risks and Steps to be safe with your dog
Updated: Jan 9, 2021
Western Diamondback rattlesnakes are in the surrounding desert.
One of the inherent risks of living in the desert is the possibility of you or your pet being bitten by a rattlesnake. The dose of venom can be fatal and pets may be at risk of death from a snake bite.
Suggestions for keeping your pets safe are: – When in the desert, it is best to keep your pet on a short leash. – Consider snake avoidance training for your dog. This valuable training can help teach your dog to stay away from rattlesnakes and avoid being bitten. – Finally, there is a vaccine available that may provide some additional protection for your dog. This may give your dog a better chance of survival between the bite and receiving emergency care. A rattlesnake bite is always an emergency and immediate veterinary care should be sought, regardless of whether your dog has had the rattlesnake vaccine care.
Oasis Animal Hospital carries the Red Rock Crotalus Atrox Toxoid Rattlesnake vaccine for dogs. This vaccine is intended to help reduce the severity of a western diamondback rattlesnake bite. The vaccine is also cross-protective against the venom of several other types of rattlesnakes that live throughout Arizona. The common side effects from this vaccine will be discussed with you if you choose to have your dog vaccinated. Initially, a dog receives two vaccines four weeks apart. Then, the vaccine is administered annually for as long as you elect to protect your dog from this threat.
Call today to schedule an appointment for your pet!