Rattlesnake Bite and the Rattlesnake Vaccine for Dogs

Rattlesnake Bite is a Veterinary Emergency

Rattlesnake bite is considered a veterinary emergency.  It results in serious injury or even death to thousands of dogs each year.  Rattlesnake venom is a complex mixture of toxins that spreads through a dog's body following the bite.  When a rattlesnake bites a dog, the toxins in the snake venom are very painful and can have serious consequences.  Even if your dog survives the immediate effects of a rattlesnake bite, he or she can be permanently injured by the venom. 

Dogs Are at Risk for Rattlesnake Bite

Rattlesnakes live in a variety of habitats including: deserts, wetlands, and forests, from sea to mountain elevations.  We certainly have rattlesnakes here in Arizona! Rattlesnakes are most active in the warmer seasons, from spring to autumn. In southern latitudes rattlesnakes can be found year round.  Here in Arizona we can find them year round in our lower desert areas; however, they are most active during the spring though autumn warmer months.  They tend to be especially active in March and April.

Dogs can encounter a rattlesnake anytime they are in or near a rattlesnake habitat. If you live in Ahwatukee, you definitely live near rattlesnakes.  Actually, most of us living in Phoenix and the surrounding areas live near rattlesnakes. Perhaps rattlesnakes live where you take your dog walking or hiking, camping, or hunting.  You may travel through or visit places where rattlesnakes are found.  Snakes even venture into our fenced backyards, front yards, and driveways. Like people, dogs may stumble upon a rattlesnake by accident.  Curiosity or a protective instinct can place your dog at risk.

If your dog sustains a rattlesnake bite the treatment may include antivenom injections which are very expensive. Further, use of anti-venom is associated with an increased risk of adverse effects which can complicate a dog's recovery. Rattlesnake bite treatment may also include hospitalization, intravenous fluids, other medications, and surgery.  

The rattlesnake vaccination can reduce the impact of the snakebite and reduce or eliminate the need for anti-venom. Vaccination can also decrease the other treatment costs.

Rattlesnake Vaccine

Red Rock Biologics has developed the Red Rock Rattlesnake Vaccine specifically to help defend dogs from the dangerous effects of rattlesnake venom.  The vaccine works by stimulating the dog's immunity to defend against the rattlesnake venom.

Vaccination can reduce the impact of the snakebite on your dog  and can reduce or eliminate the need for anti-venom.  Additionally, vaccination can decrease other possible treatment costs.  

The veterinarians at Ahwatukee Animal Care Hospital recommend yearly Rattlesnake vaccinations to help protect your furry friend.  

Visit www.redrockbiologics.com for more information about rattlesnakes and the vaccine.

Click on the following links for more information regarding our recommended vaccine protocols:

Vaccine Protocol    

This is not a replacement for a veterinary consultation.

If you have questions or concerns regarding your pet's health or care, please call our friendly staff to schedule an appointment (480) 893-0533. Contact us!