Winter is always so peaceful on the hiking trails by my house because the ground is frozen. Now the daffodils are blooming. Spring is here. The earth is warming up. Creatures I didn't see during the colder months are out and about. Each time I go around a bend on a hiking trail I watch out for a Western Diamondback sunning on the path.
I wear hiking boots to protect my feet and ankles. But dogs don't wear shoes and their natural curiosity can lead them right into harm's way. Often my dogs are running through the longer grass so quickly it would be impossible for them to even see the snake hiding nearby. That's why I get them vaccinated for rattlesnake bites. And rattlesnake vaccines are a safer alternative to the antivenom treatment if my dogs get a bite. Of course, even with the vaccine if one of my dogs gets bitten by a snake, I still need to immediately go to the vet for a check.
Rattlesnake bites are a veterinary emergency that results in serious injury and unfortunately even death to thousands of dogs each year. The venom spreads through dogs (and humans) quickly. The good news is dogs can get vaccinated to protect them.
If you live in an area with rattlesnakes, it's time to get your dog vaccinated. The best time for the vaccine is at the beginning of the snake season because the vaccine loses its effectiveness over time. Of course, please consult with your vet for the best preventive measures for your dog.
Rattlesnakes like to sunbathe on rocks or ledges during the day, but they are out during dawn and dusk too. Rattlesnakes can climb walls and trees. They also like to hide beneath logs or woodpiles. Last year my husband picked up a bag of grass clippings beside the house and surprised a rattlesnake hiding underneath it.
Even if your dog can't see the snake they can learn to recognize the signs that a snake is nearby. Rattlesnakes emit an odor and a rattle sound that is specific to them. If you hike often you might consider contacting a professional dog trainer in your area that specializes in training dogs to avoid snakes.
(Photo: Western Diamondback Rattlesnake photo by Charles & Clint)