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Protecting Your Dog From Rattlesnakes

September 15, 2022

Did you know that Snakebite Awareness Day is the 19th? That is definitely a relevant topic here in Texas. We have almost a dozen types of poisonous snakes. An encounter with one of these ‘nope ropes’ can be very dangerous for your furry companion! Dogs are particularly at risk, because of their protectiveness, curiosity, and affinity for sniffing around, well, everything. A local Rockwall, TX vet discusses keeping Fido safe from snakes in this article.

Property

There are some things you can do to make your place less inviting to snakes. A four-foot fence will help quite a bit: while some snakes climb, others will turn back from these barriers. You’ll also want to seal or put grates on open spaces, such as drainage pipes, and fill in empty spaces beneath sheds, doghouses, and other buildings. Last but not least, get rid of debris, such as fallen branches.

Training

Training is important for many reasons, including safety. Make sure Fido will come when you call him! A good petucation can also keep your pooch from approaching a snake. Teach your furry friend basic commands, such as Sit, Stay, Leave It, and Come.

Care When Walking

Our canine pals love to sniff around and investigate things. Don’t let Fido nose about in spots that could be snake habitats. That includes things like logs, brush piles, and even long grass. It’s also important to keep a close eye on the terrain during walks, especially at night.

Leashes

Always keep your canine companion on a leash whenever he isn’t in a fenced area. This is just good general dog care practice anyway!

Vaccinations

There are rattlesnake vaccinations available, though there are some caveats. They don’t protect against every type of snake. Fido will also need boosters. However, if your pooch has a high chance of coming across a snake, ask your vet for more information.

Tips

What if your furry pal does get bit? Many dogs do survive snake encounters, but Fido would need to be treated immediately. The faster you get him to the clinic, the better his odds of a full and quick recovery. Call your vet or the emergency clinic right away, so they can offer first-aid advice and prepare for him.

Please reach out with questions about your pet’s health or care. As your local Rockwall, TX animal clinic, we are here for you!