If you live in Southern California you know that as the weather heats up, the rattlesnakes come out. Spring and summer are known as “rattlesnake season” with most rattlesnake bites happening between April and October, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Rattlesnakes are widespread and found in a variety of habitats throughout California with seven species of rattlesnakes calling California home. Rattlesnakes have a distinctive triangular shaped head and a rattle made from keratin at the end of their tail. This is what creates the buzz sound snakes use as a warning when they feel threatened or disturbed.

In general rattlesnakes are not aggressive and prefer to avoid people entirely. They are most active in spring and summer at dawn or dusk which are also times when people like to get out on the trails for a hike or family walk, often with their pets.

The best way to keep yourself and your dog safe from a rattlesnake bite, is to avoid rattlesnakes all together. If you take your furry friend out for a hike, don’t stray from the trail and be on the lookout for signs of snakes. Always keep your dog on a leash and don’t allow them to explore holes, tall grass areas, or rock or wood piles where snakes may be hiding. If you do encounter a snake on a trail do NOT try to catch or handle it. Stay at least 4 to 6 feet away and either go around the snake or turn back the way you came. In addition you can sign your dog up for a Rattlesnake Avoidance Class which are becoming more and more available and will teach your dog to stay away from a rattlesnake if it were to encounter one. There are also vaccines that can lessen the symptoms if your pet is ever bitten by a rattlesnake.

If your dog is bitten by a rattlesnake don’t panic. Carry your pet to the car keeping the bite site at heart level if possible, and get them veterinary care ASAP! Even if your dog has had the rattlesnake vaccine they still need emergency treatment.

For more information or to get the rattlesnake vaccine for you dog, give us a call! 805-522-7476 or make an appointment at https://www.rsvet.com/appointment 

Sources:

https://abc7.com/rattlesnake-season-2023-socal-southern-california-pet-safety/13286282/

https://happydogtraining.info/advice/rattlesnake-season-is-here/

https://www.sacbee.com/sports/outdoors/article261608212.html

https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Reptiles/Rattlesnake#574773467-habitat-and-range