How to Protect a Pet From Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are dangerous to pets as well as humans and can live mostly anywhere. April through October (rattlesnake season) is the most likely time to encounter them, since they are born in the spring and sleep through the winter. Rattlesnakes can climb walls and trees and often sun themselves on rocks or ledges during the day. They tend to be sneaky and hide in warm places such as woodpiles and animal burrows, underneath logs or rocks and in rubbish piles or under cars. They are also common in desert areas. The following are ways to protect your pet from rattlesnakes.

Instructions

1. Examine your yard before letting your pet go out in it.

2. Try to avoid walking your dog or letting your cat wander around at dawn or dusk, the most popular time for snakes to be out there.

3. When hiking with your dog or being outdoors with your cat, be very aware of your surroundings. It's always best to keep your dog on a leash and not let your cat wander around where there may be snakes.

4. If you see a snake, get away from it quickly and keep your pet away. Call your nearest Animal Care and Control Center to come and remove the snake.

5. If your pet gets bitten, try to keep him calm and still and take him to a vet immediately. If it's after hours, find the nearest emergency vet clinic. The vet may administer antivenin, an antidote for snakebites.

Tips & Warnings

• If you suspect that a rattlesnake bit your pet, look for signs. You can often see two puncture marks on the face or on the feet and there may also be bleeding and swelling.

• Some Humane Societies offer snake aversion classes for dogs, so that if they see one they won't go up to it and know to back away, or even if they smell one they'll be trained to leave it alone.

• NEVER apply a tourniquet, put heat or ice on the wound, try to suck out the venom or cut into the bite area.

• A snakebite can result in tissue damage and even death if you don't react quickly.