Here in Southern California, we have a native population of rattlesnakes. All rattlesnake venom (genus Crotalus) is poisonous to pets. Thankfully, a preventative vaccine is currently available for dogs and horses.

This vaccine stimulates the immune system to generate protective antibodies against rattlesnake venom. These protective antibodies function by neutralizing rattlesnake venom in the case of a bite. After vaccination, dogs are reported to experience less pain and have a reduced risk of permanent injury from rattlesnake bites. Testing has been performed to show that serum from vaccinated dogs and other animals neutralizes venom from a number of species of Crotalus found in the United States. For more information on the vaccine, please visit www.redrockbiologics.com.

At The Drake Center, we are currently not recommending the rattlesnake vaccine for all dogs, but only to those whose lifestyle may put them at an increased risk. Unfortunately, the vaccine does not limit the need to seek emergency veterinary care after the pet is bitten. It is important to note that the dog may still go into shock and need lifesaving medical care, including an injection of antivenin to neutralize the toxicity of the venom. The vaccine also does not provide protection against venom from the Water Moccasin (Cottonmouth), Mojave Rattlesnake or Coral Snake.

Treatment for rattlesnake evenomation involves:

  • Treating for shock with intravenous fluids, pain medications and steroids
  • Treating the wound with topical therapy and antibiotics
  • Testing and treating for coagulopathies (trouble clotting the blood) 
  • Administration of intravenous antivenin and monitoring for anaphylactic reactions

All pets will need to be hospitalized and most pets will need 24-hour care at an emergency hospital. If the pet was bitten by a Mojave Rattlesnake, a second type of antivenin will be needed to combat the neurologic toxicity associated with this type of venom.

As an alternative to the vaccine, or in addition to it, your dog may be trained to avoid rattlesnakes through an aversion training course. In these courses, dogs are taught to recognize and avoid the sight, sound and scent of a rattlesnake.