Rattlesnakes are a dangerous threat to pets, whose inquisitive nature and nose-to-the-ground curiosity put them at risk for bites. Dogs are more likely than other animals to die from rattlesnake bites because of their relatively small size. The Dove Mountain Veterinary team wants to warn local pet owners about the risks of rattlesnake bites and explain how to treat a snake bite. Here is our guide to rattlesnake safety for pets.

Rattlesnake bites and pets

Rattlesnakes belong to a family of venomous snakes called crotalids, which have long, hollow fangs they use to inject venom into their prey or in self-defense. The venom immediately begins killing local tissue and preventing normal blood clotting. Some rattlesnake species, including the Mojave, have venom that also causes nervous system problems, such as paralysis. Although large animals who are bitten rarely die, dogs are small relative to the amount and strength of rattlesnake venom and can die in a few hours without treatment. 

A rattlesnake that bites may or may not inject venom, because this is a voluntary action. Pets experiencing envenomations suffer from rapid tissue damage around the bite, which becomes discolored and swollen. In minutes to hours, depending on the pet’s size and the amount of venom injected, the pet could experience life-threatening bleeding, collapse, or respiratory depression.

Pet rattlesnake bite treatment

If you witness a snake bite your pet, or you suspect that a bite occurred, do not administer first aid or wait to see if envenomation signs appear. Venomous snake bites are true emergencies and you should call our clinic and come in with your pet immediately. If our clinic is closed, take your pet to the nearest veterinary emergency facility. If you can do so safely, snap a photo of the snake, including a clear head shot. Although we do not condone harming wildlife, if your dog killed the snake, bring it with you for identification.

Once under veterinary care, your pet will receive intravenous fluids to combat shock and likely one or more doses of antivenom to directly combat the toxic venom effects. Medications are useful to control pain and limit inflammation, while antibiotics may be required to prevent damaged tissues from infection. Some pets need blood transfusions to control bleeding and clotting issues. 

Our veterinary team will closely monitor your pet’s condition and, if the bite is severe, transfer them to a specialized facility for overnight care. After 24 to 48 hours, we may release your pet for continued home care. Recovery may take up to 10 days. If your pet has particularly severe tissue damage, they may need additional procedures or surgery, such as a limb amputation.

Pet rattlesnake bite prevention

Rattlesnakes are a fact of life in Arizona, but you can take steps to limit your pet’s exposure. Consider the following strategies:

  • Avoid snake habitats — If you frequent parks or hiking trails with your pet, keep them on a leash and stay on designated paths. Never allow your pet to root through brush or under rocks. 
  • Vaccinate your pet — The rattlesnake vaccine reduces the bite’s toxic effects, but vaccinated pets who are bitten still require intensive treatment. Ask our team if they would recommend the rattlesnake vaccine for your dog.
  • Rattlesnake avoidance training — This training is critical for dogs who live or work in areas with snakes. Invest in a professional, positive-reinforcement dog trainer to assist in the training, which essentially uses the smell, sound, or sight of a snake as a cue for your dog to run the other way and find you. Teaching good “Leave it” and recall cues is also an important safety precaution.

Rattlesnake bite awareness and preparedness can help minimize your pet’s risk during outdoor adventures and everyday Arizona life. Contact the Dove Mountain Veterinary team for additional information about rattlesnake safety or to obtain immediate veterinary care if your pet encounters a venomous snake.