Rattlesnake Appreciation Day is January 28th! Rattlesnakes aren’t the most popular wild animal out there. However, as a pet owner, it’s also important for you to know how to protect your furry friend from getting bit by one. A Frisco, TX vet offers some insight on this below.

Native Snakes

Texas is home to several different rattlesnakes, including the Western Diamondback, Banded Rock Rattlesnake, Mojave Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, Mottled Rock Rattlesnake, Blacktail Rattlesnake, and Prairie Rattlesnake. They all have different colors/patterns, habitats, and behavioral patterns, so it’s worth your while to do a little research.

Appreciation

Why appreciate rattlesnakes? As it turns out, these guys actually get a bit of a bad rap. Snakes are very helpful in controlling rodent populations, which in turn reduces rodent-borne diseases. They are also food for other animals, including foxes and coyotes. And while you probably don’t want a rattlesnake living in your shed, it’s important to see them as wildlife, rather than pests. If you do find one on your land, contact a professional to remove and relocate it humanely.

Precautions

When walking your dog, pay very close attention to the ground, and watch where you and Fido are stepping. Take a flashlight with you after dark. You may also need to curb your canine pal’s natural inclination to sniff and investigate, well, everything. Don’t let your pooch nose around in areas that could be potential snake hideouts. That includes places like rotten logs, nooks and crannies around rivers, and piles of wood and/or brush.

Training

Proper training is very important! Make sure Fido knows basic commands, such as Sit, Stay, Heel, and Come.

Encounters

What do you do if you do spot a snake? The best answer is nothing. Stay very still, and then slowly back away. Most snakes are actually quite shy, and only bite if provoked.

Bites

If by chance your furry buddy does get bit, you’ll need to get him to the animal clinic immediately. Snake bites aren’t necessarily fatal, but Fido will need to be treated right away.

Vaccinations

If you live (or frequently visit) areas that are known for having snakes, ask your vet about getting Fido vaccinated against snake bites. This may not be right for every pup, but it’s worth looking into. Do you have questions about rattlesnake bites or vaccines? Contact us, your Frisco, TX animal clinic!