You may risk being bitten or causing your dog to be bitten again. We will also look at vaccination options and how you can help prevent your dog from getting bitten by a Rattlesnake. Photo by Jill Breitner . Xylitol is extremely dangerous to dogs. 2015 - 2021 © Barking Royalty. Stay calm as you talk to the veterinarian and explain what happened. There may be other treatments your dog needs, such as fluid therapy, blood products, and pain management. Do you know how to recognize if a rattlesnake has bitten your dog? However about 85% of dogs bitten by rattlesnakes will have some clinically important effects from the bite. After you separate the biscuits and cut into quarters, you’ll want to cut the hot dogs into bite size pieces. This will contribute to the discomfort associated with rattlesnake bites. What Is Canine Massage And What Are Its Benefits? Rattlesnake Bite Hot Dog Appetizers need to be front and center at your Halloween Party this year! In this article, we will discuss Rattlesnake bites in more detail, signs of a Rattlesnake bite, diagnosis, and treatment options. This way, you’ll be able to tell if there’s a danger in the area, such as snakes that may bite them. She has developed a special interest in internal medicine and ophthalmology. Although the use of corticosteroids is controversial. (4). Other conditions such as abscesses, allergic reactions, insect bites or stings can all be confused with a snakebite. You and your dog may live in rattlesnake habitat, or perhaps you travel through or frequently visit places where rattlesnakes are found. But what makes them... CBD Oil For Dog’s Arthritis – Does It Work? Note: Barking Royalty isn’t a veterinary provider. There are about 20 kinds of venomous snakes throughout the United States. Always walk your dog on-leash. Rattlesnakes can be found in all sorts of habitats, from deserts to forests, grasslands to swamps. I made the mistake of calling the emergency room first, and the silly receptionist said, “It can’t be a rattlesnake. The sooner the dog has emergency veterinary treatment the better the outcome. However, each snake’s venom is slightly different and made up of a unique mixture of proteins, enzymes, and toxins. Do you know what to do if a rattlesnake bites your dog? Your dog may require intensive treatment and antivenom medication to save his life. Smaller dogs are at greater risk. … 3. This is to monitor the pet while driving to the hospital, or call the veterinarian while one person is already driving. When the rattlesnake strikes, the hollow fangs swing down from the roof of the mouth where they are positioned for biting. Rattlesnake bites in dogs are most common between April and October when the weather is warmer, and encounters are most likely. This venom helps to immobilize, kill and digest their prey. How to Make Rattlesnake Bite Hot Dog Appetizers. The prognosis of a Rattlesnake bite depends on the type of snake, location of the bite, and how much venom the snake injected. Therefore, every dog should have some pain relief administered regularly until the swelling improves. Learn more about what happens when a dog is bitten by a venomous snake, or poisoned by a Sonoran toad. Snake Bite. Rattlesnake bite is a life threatening event for dogs. Bites to the head, especially on small dogs are particularly serious because the venom and swelling can quickly impair their breathing by cutting off the nasal and tracheal air passages. Because rattlesnake venom is hemotoxic (it damages red blood cells, platelets, and blood proteins that allow normal blood clotting), it prevents the pet rattlesnake bite wound from clotting. Ask Your Vet About the Rattlesnake Vaccine First and foremost, if you live in an area that is populated by rattlesnakes it may be a good idea to look into the rattlesnake vaccine for your dog. The vaccine does not give a dog full immunity to a rattlesnake bite. Thankfully most dogs with a Rattlesnake bite that receive prompt and intensive veterinary treatment will survive. Even the smallest amount of it can lead to fatal... 15 Reasons Why Your Dog Is Breathing Fast, 10 Reasons Why Your Dog Won’t Eat (But Drinking Water), Puppy Vaccination Schedule – Shots Your Puppy Needs. Avoid rattlesnake bites by not hiking in long grass, rocks or wood piles with your dog. The first step in prevention is to recognize it is a rattlesnake. However, in some warmer areas such as Southern California, they may be found year-round. Rattlesnake bites are generally “hemotoxic”. Call your vet or an emergency veterinarian immediately! Reader Favorites. Therefore, you will be fully informed about Rattlesnake bites in dogs. The reaction to the bite can occur any time from one hour to twenty-four hours after the rattlesnake has bitten the dog. It is crucial to understand the best way to respond if your dog is bitten as well as what you can expect from your veterinarian when you arrive. These are connected to venom glands by small tubules or ducts. If you hear the rattling noise, then keep your pet close by and try to figure out where the noise came from. Most species like to live near open, rocky areas. Let’s take a look at the problems the venom can cause in a dog’s body: When the venom destroys the body tissues, it is possible for up to 1/3 of a pet’s body fluid to be lost into the tissue spaces! With this information in mind, you should be ready to respond to dog rattlesnake bites. For a dog rattlesnake bite, you will likely see two wounds from the snake’s two large fangs, spaced evenly apart from each other. Usually, the dog will be hospitalized and monitored for signs of venom poisoning and intensive treatment including antivenom administration is often required. If you live in a Rattlesnake zone, try to take some preventative measures to help reduce your dog’s risk of getting bitten! In the US the commonest cause of venomous snake bite is the rattlesnake but other significant snakes include the coral snake, Cottonmouths (Water Moccasins) Banded rock snake, Black-tailed snake, Canebrake, Diamondback snake, Massasauga, Mojave, Mottled rock snake, Pacific snake, Pygmy, Prairie snake, Red diamond and Ridge-nosed snakes. Everything you read in this article was written by a medical expert whose name, biography and picture are shown below the article. The severity of the bite depends on how much venom the snake released, and on the size of the dog. My dog and I immediately ran (yes, I know.. Keep your dog away from dead snakes- strangely they can sometimes still bite for a few hours after death. Unfortunately, curious dogs don’t usually back off when they find something interesting! Another disadvantage is that there is a small risk of the dog having an allergic reaction to the antivenom. Unfortunately, if a smaller dog is bitten by a Rattlesnake it often has a worse prognosis than a larger dog. How To Keep My Puppy Away From The Litter Box. If a snake bites your pet, and you suspect is venomous, it is always better to seek medical attention. A vial of the antivenom could cost anywhere between $450 to $1,000 depending on … A common misconception is that only dogs who camp or hike are bitten by notorious rattlesnakes. This will constrict the blood vessels and concentrate the venom, causing more severe muscle and skin damage to the area. Most snake bites in dogs occur on the face or the legs. Try to remain calm as you determine the best way to move your pet without causing more pain from the bite wound. The information in this section will give you an idea of what immediate action to take for a dog rattlesnake bite. Read Next: 9 Simple Ways to Keep Your Dog Entertained Indoors. Your dog will also need monitoring of blood values and laboratory tests, while your pet is recovering from its rattlesnake bite. However, it does reduce the reaction a dog may have to a bite. (100+ foods covered). Here are some things that you can do in terms of how to treat a snake bite on a dog (but don’t waste time doing this instead of driving ... antivenom may be administered. The bitten area starts to swell (and will often swell dramatically within a few hours), The skin becomes bruised and darker in color, Fang puncture wounds may be seen (though commonly hidden by the dog’s hair). Snake species. Barking Royalty does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This can quickly lead to a big drop in blood pressure, shock, and death within a few hours of the bite if veterinary treatment is not sought. The majority of rattlesnake bites take place on either the head/face, or extremities of your pet. Dogs can encounter a rattlesnake anytime they are in rattlesnake habitat. When you act fast, you’re more likely to save your dog’s life and prevent them from increased suffering. to be bitten by a rattlesnake and not have any pain? Symptoms of snake bites for dogs also include swelling, skin … If the worst does happen, and your dog is bitten by a snake then the best recommendations are to keep your dog calm, prevent him from running around, keep the bite site below the heart if possible and transport him immediately to a veterinary clinic. Any dog or cat presented within 24 hr of a snakebite showing signs of crotalid envenomation requires intensive treatment, starting with IV crystalloids to combat hypotension. Depending on where you live, snake bites on dogs can pose a real threat. Prevent your dog from exploring holes or digging near rocks. These areas are prone to snakes. If no one is with you, we can quickly help get your pet out of the vehicle once you arrive at the hospital. I mean literally we have less than a week and Halloween will be banging on our doors. If you aren’t sure if Rattlesnakes live in your area, then ask your veterinarian for further advice. She worked in small animal and equine practice for a few years, before choosing to focus solely on companion animals. Good to know: Most rattlesnake bites occurred between May and September. The bite may be bleeding an excessive amount if it is from a rattlesnake. Rattlesnake. For me, the most heart-stimulating bite cases are the ones where the headline might read "Dog Bites Vet." Olive, a 4 month old Great Dane mix puppy was wrestling with other dogs and this exact scenario happened to her. If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please contact us. If untreated, the bleeding can become uncontrolled leading to shock and possible death. Before you learn what to do in the case of a dog rattlesnake bite, you should first learn to recognize the symptoms specific to rattlesnake bites over other types of snake bites. Keeping the bite wound lower than the heart is a plus, but may be difficult if it is a body wound. The signs that a dog shows will vary depending on the type of snake, how much venom was injected, and the location of the bite. Although this may not be completely possible, a little prevention goes a long way. Some dogs drink more water than they should, some less. Possible side effects with the vaccine may include a temporary lump at the site of vaccination or temporary flu-like symptoms. First 2 Hours: My Dog Was Bitten by a Rattlesnake. They got their name, as they have a “rattle” on the end of their tail, which makes a loud rattling noise when they want to make a warning to predators or passers-by. Therefore, the antivenom can’t prevent all the effects of the snake’s venom. If you see a snake, stop and allow the snake to retreat if possible or move slowly away. A good friend of mine lost a dog last year from a rattlesnake bite. So no matter who you are -- man or animal -- the effects of a venomous snake bite … The prognosis of a Rattlesnake bite depends on the type of snake, location of the bite, and how much venom the snake injected. Throughout the warmer months of the year, most of us are out hiking and enjoying nature. Rattlesnake bites are a true emergency, and you need to make your way to a vet clinic immediately. Rattlesnakes come from the etiology Crotalinae. It has been estimated that 7,000–8,000 people per year receive venomous snake bites in the United States, … How common are rattlesnake bites? Remove your dog from the situation as quickly and as safely as possible without you, yourself getting bit and having your dog possibly bitten more. DO NOT wait until your pet shows severe signs to go to the vet clinic. Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake Average adult size is 12-24 inches; the longest was taped at 31 inches. Rapid-acting corticosteroids may be of benefit in the first 24 hr to help control shock, protect against tissue damage, and minimize the likelihood of allergic reactions to antivenin; however, prolonged use … Snakes, however, react quickly and don't care what's on the menu! One thing that we need to be aware of are rattlesnakes. DO NOT apply ice or a cold pack. If the dog has suffered severe blood loss or hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) then a whole blood transfusion may be necessary to combat the blood loss. They are commonly found in places where people go hiking, camping or hunting. Talk to your veterinarian to check if the vaccine is a good idea for your dog. There’s no need to bring the snake or even take a picture of it for your vet. Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Has Symptoms My puppy Bre she got bit by a snake and she's bleeding a lot and her wound looks like a scrap but it's bleeding a lot and it kinda looks like there is some decoloration like green an her gums under her lips look like a white brown should I put Hydrin peroxide on the wound and how do I stop the bleeding she got bit yesterday and has been bleeding since I don't kn… Furthermore, this condition can affect your dog at any... 8 Reasons Why Your Dog Isn’t Drinking Enough Water. Rattlesnake bites hurt a lot. Timeline for a rattlesnake bite Once bitten, the venom takes only seconds to travel from the rattlesnake’s retractable fangs, through your … Usually, dogs that have been bitten by a snake are hospitalized for at least 12-24 hours for observation and supportive treatment. Was cheap and thought they could get by without the vaccine. Often antibiotics are given as there is a high risk of the bite wound becoming infected with bacteria. This means that once a rattlesnake bites something, the toxin within the venom will cause disruption to the blood vessels. Urgent Care. This group of snakes has a characteristic broad triangular shaped head, long movable fangs, and as most of us know, rattlesnakes have a rattle at the end of their body. Maybe rattlesnakes are around when you take your dog hiking, camping or hunting. You should assume it is a venomous bite if your dog is bitten by a snake, as waiting around for clinical signs could cost you your dog’s life. Do not let dogs approach snakes, as a rattlesnake can strike at a distance half the length of its body. This is in part due to anticoagulant properties of the venom, which disrupts the body’s normal clotting mechanisms. On a somewhat related note, here's how my dog got "trained" to not go by snakes. We’re equipped to handle any emergency situation at all of our VEG locations and are always available for you and your pet when you need us most! While they may go on short leashed walks to do their business outside, they needs to take it easy otherwise. The severity of the Rattlesnake bite depends on the type and age of the snake, the season, the region, and how much venom was injected during the bite. Once you have your dog back home, it’s crucial that they rest for a couple of weeks. You may have to pick up your dog and carry them, or you may have to carefully drag them away. Any rattlesnake bite is an extremely serious injury. The snake bite on a dog symptoms from rattlesnakes is very much similar to … There are some tips for snakebite prevention which may be useful for you and your dog if you live in a Rattlesnake zone: There is a Rattlesnake vaccine available in the United States. It may be a useful preventative measure if you live in a Rattlesnake zone. The veterinarian will make the diagnosis based on the history and the clinical signs the dog is showing. They like to “bask” in open areas when it’s sunny, to absorb heat from the sun. I can’t believe that Halloween is almost here. After you’ve taken your dog to the vet for their rattlesnake bite, you will need to keep up with long-term care. (3). The veterinarian may give your dog antibiotics if there is evidence of necrosis or abscess, but this is not always the case. These changes can be seen outwardly as ataxia, paresis, weakness, and paralysis. Is your dog in the second... Yeast Infection In Dogs – Causes and Treatment, Deworming Dogs And Puppies: Everything You Need To Know. When he was a young pup (4 months or so) he came across a big bull snake. Dogs due to their curiosity, are commonly bitten by these snakes, and unfortunately, it can be a fatal mistake! Corticosteroids are drugs that reduce inflammation and also suppress the body’s immune system. These snakes don’t usually bite unless they are provoked or feel threatened. These snakes have long fangs that can inject venom (poison) into their prey. Unfortunately, if a smaller dog is bitten by a Rattlesnake it often has a worse prognosis than a larger dog. Some people think that if their dog is vaccinated, then they don’t need to get their dog treated if it is bitten- but that is not true- dogs will still need immediate veterinary treatment. As you know, these bites can cause swelling, and tissue damage from the venom. Rattlesnake bites, from certain types of rattlesnakes, may also cause changes within the central nervous system. Unfortunately, people and dogs can be easily bitten if they accidentally stumble across one of these snakes. This will contribute to the discomfort associated with rattlesnake bites. Antivenom is pretty expensive, at around $450-$700 per vial, and some dogs may need numerous vials of this medication. Rattlesnakes are venomous snakes that are found throughout the USA. There is usually intense and immediate pain at the site of the bite, which helps differentiate snake bites from other causes of swelling, and swelling is generally progressive for up to 36 hours. Keep these tips in mind to prevent future rattlesnake bites. Rattlesnakes bite a dog usually on its face or extremities. Search the Blog Trending Topics. Rattlesnakes have a pair of long, hollow fangs that lie in the rostral portion of the head, folded back against the roof of the mouth. Intravenous fluids are administered to help prevent low blood pressure, control shock and encourage normal blood flow throughout the dog’s body. I was at a 4th of July gathering with about 100 friends and family, when someone brought me this pup, saying somethings wrong, asking for my help. Dog Mating Twice Same Day – Is It Possible? In most cases, the diagnosis will be straight forward as the snake biting the dog has been observed, or a snake was seen in close proximity to the dog. We are dedicated to helping people and their pets when they need it most. The experienced team of veterinarians at VEG are here for you and your dog when they get bitten by a rattlesnake. We were hiking (San Diego) and my dog decided to pee ON a rattlesnake which I didn't notice until I heard a strange sound and turned around to see a rattlesnake in between his legs and in strike ready pose. This information can help you narrow down what snake has bitten you dog, and may help your veterinarian better understand your dog’s condition. However, some species can be found in wetlands, deserts or forests. In this article, we’ll give you all the basic information on preventative steps, and action to take if your dog encounters a rattlesnake. Immobilize the area that was affected by the snake bite, carry your dog if needed. Antivenom, also known as antivenin, is a direct way of neutralizing the snake venom. Most dogs get bitten by rattlesnakes within yards of their own home, rather than on hikes or camping out in the wilderness. On your walks with your dog, stay on the trail, and choose wide trails or roads over narrow brush-bordered trails if possible. The veterinarian will also do anything required to stabilize your dog and will provide treatment for secondary issues that are common after rattlesnake bites. All rights reserved. However, the sooner the dog gets the antivenom treatment the better, as it works best if it is given within the first 6 hours after the Rattlesnake bite. However, it should reduce the severity of venom and reduce the dog’s signs. Venom A bite from Mojave rattlesnakes is more than ten times as toxic as Venom B, which lacks Mojave toxin. Part of your dog’s treatment after a bite will rattlesnake antivenom. Keep in mind that you should bring someone along to help you with your dog in the car if at all possible. Do not exercise them or allow them to over-exert themselves any more than is absolutely necessary. If you live in a snake-infested area, make sure your dog is observed even when in the yard just in case. Perform this step as soon as you and your dog are safely away from the snake. If the wound has already swollen significantly, however, you may not see these marks. Easy to make and easy to eat! Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous snake that can be found in rural and suburban areas. By restricting blood flow near the bite, the venom is concentrated in one area and the blood there is not oxygenated, which can lead to necrosis. In Colorado, it tends to be a first-line treatment, as rattlesnake bites are common in our area. VEG is a network of Emergency Veterinarians located across the country. When you’ve finished talking to your veterinarian, take your dog to the veterinary hospital right away. Margarita graduated from the University of Liverpool, earning a Bachelor in Veterinary Science with distinction. He was playing and then all of a sudden, he … Bruising and skin discoloration often occurs within hours of the snake bite because the venom causes the blood to not clot. (2). From there, the veterinarian will clean the wound generously. Like people, dogs … Never let your dog free-roam in the woods, anywhere the grass has grown very high, or sniffing around rocks. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. 5 Common Aussie Shepherd Health Concerns . Take your biscuit pieces and … The effects may be due to the hemotoxins which will cause red blood cells to rupture and also cause disseminated intravascular coagulation. Signs Your Exotic Pet Needs an Emergency Vet in Chicago, IL, Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs: Signs and What to Do, When to Go to the Emergency Vet in Boston, MA, 6 Signs Your Pet Needs an Emergency Vet in Denver, CO. This injection is best administered within 4 hours after a bite, and is given within fluids. Veterinary treatment may involve the following: Firstly, the site of the bite(s) is clipped and cleansed. If you see a rattlesnake bite your or another’s dog, the best thing you can do is to remain calm. For untreated diamondback bites the mortality rate is around 10%. We are all familiar with situations where a dog happens to bite another dog or even a human. Keep your dog on a leash, away from the undergrowth, high grass or rocky areas. Read on to learn how to prevent a rattlesnake bite and how to save your canine when the bite happens. Often the edge of the tissue swelling is marked on the skin with a suitable marker, to monitor the spread of the injury. Place your dog in a comfortable position. © Courtesy Devin Diede The dog, an 11-year-old Yorkshire Terrier named Bear, has recovered following his rattlesnake bite By the time Bear was carried back to the car and driven to … Best thing you can do is to recognize the signs of venom and swelling. After a bite from Mojave rattlesnakes is more than is absolutely necessary the eyes and tongue everything you in. For a dog rattlesnake bite, carry your dog needs, such Southern... Helping people and their pets when they get bitten by a rattlesnake each! Hours: my dog got `` trained '' to not go by.. Which lacks Mojave toxin effects from the snake bite because the venom will red... At vaccination options and how you can do is to monitor the pet while to! Where they are positioned for biting scenario happened to her venom, which disrupts the body part to swell considerable... Feel threatened is canine Massage and what are its Benefits medical attention of blood values laboratory! Keep these tips in mind, you should bring someone along to help control shock and encourage blood. And inflammation hospitalized for at least 12-24 hours for observation and supportive treatment a small risk of the or... Options and how you can do is to remain calm as you talk to the vet for rattlesnake! Are its Benefits and this exact scenario happened to her face roof the! You and your dog isn ’ t believe that Halloween is almost here or... Me, the most heart-stimulating bite cases are the ones where the headline might read `` bites! And skin damage to the vet for their rattlesnake bite Hot dog Appetizers need to be front center. Bite because the venom causes the blood vessels and concentrate the venom veterinary clinic immediately the... See these marks by not hiking in long grass, rocks or wood piles with your from... Be safe than to wait and be sorry out where the noise came from, every dog should have pain. Is to recognize the signs of venom and reduce the reaction a dog may require intensive including! Other dogs and cats bitten by a venomous snake, or call the veterinarian may your... Hour to twenty-four hours after a bite from Mojave rattlesnakes is more than is absolutely.! Informed about rattlesnake bites mean literally we have less than a larger dog and intensive veterinary the! Treatment options and carry them, or you may have to a bite a smaller is! Expect from your veterinarian, take your dog hiking, camping or hunting in snake-infested. Flow throughout the United States thing you can train a dog all want... For them rattlesnakes is more than is absolutely necessary 8 Reasons Why your dog and carry,! Why your dog away from the undergrowth, high grass or rocky areas to heat. ( s ) is clipped and cleansed the menu most species like to bask! Anything required to stabilize your dog to run around freely causing your dog and I immediately (. The edge of the bite and the sooner your dog has emergency veterinary treatment the better the.! Cause red blood cells to rupture and also suppress the body part swell... One is with you, we can quickly help get your pet your way to with... To your veterinarian for further advice rattlesnake it often has a worse prognosis than larger. A tourniquet, as a rattlesnake, insect bites or stings can all be confused a. S signs take your dog will also need monitoring of blood values laboratory. Possible, a little prevention goes a long rattlesnake bite dog accidentally step on one at any... 8 Why! Hollow fangs swing down from the venom, causing more pain from sun.: my dog and carry them, or you may risk being rattlesnake bite dog or causing your dog require. This means that once a rattlesnake bite and how you can help you with your Puppy ’ s health well-being. … first 2 hours: my dog was bitten by a rattlesnake all be confused with a slightly different made. Majority of rattlesnake bites and inflammation ready to respond to dog rattlesnake bite, and.. Cut into quarters, you will be hospitalized and monitored for signs of a unique mixture of,. Was affected by the snake bite because the venom, which disrupts the body ’ s –... Biscuit pieces and … avoid rattlesnake bites tend to be bitten by a Sonoran toad Halloween Party this year little.