You and your family enjoy exploring the great outdoors in California, and you like to include your pet dog in your adventures. However, prudent dog owners should always keep in mind the dangers of exposing their pets to rattlesnakes, whose bites can be painful and even deadly. Fortunately, At Day Creek Animal Hospital, we are experts in providing rattlesnake bite vaccine services.
Our veterinarian in Rancho Cucamonga and the entire staff welcome the opportunity to help protect your dog. If you’ve never had your dog vaccinated against the venom from rattlesnakes before, an introduction is in order.
Overview of Rattlesnake Bite Vaccination for Dogs
Rattlesnakes can be found in a wide range of habitats in California, from coastal areas to desert locations, and they also show up near people’s homes, looking for shelter in brush or even underneath woodpiles, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The department reports that most rattlesnake bites occur in California between the months of April and October, so exercise additional caution when outside during this period.
A bite from a rattlesnake causes intense pain and may lead to symptoms including impaired blood clotting, shock, and tissue swelling. A rattlesnake bite vaccination for dogs works by producing antibodies that counter the venom released by western diamond rattlesnakes.
When you come to our animal hospital in Rancho Cucamonga, the vet will consult with you about your lifestyle (outdoor activities that you share with your dog). Then, the vet will explain more about how the vaccine works. You will need to make an appointment for a follow-up vaccine about one month after the first shot, and then one shot every year, going forward.
A rattlesnake vaccination works by stimulating your dog to produce antibodies that counter the rattlesnake’s venom. This does not make your pet completely immune to bites, however. Antibodies produced by the vaccine neutralize the venom, which results in less pain and swelling. What’s more, dogs vaccinated against rattlesnake bites may require less antivenin treatment once you arrive at the animal hospital after the attack.
Emergency Treatment at Your Vet in Rancho Cucamonga Is Still Required After a Rattlesnake Bite
Your vet in Rancho Cucamonga reminds you that even if your dog has been vaccinated against the bite of a rattlesnake, being bitten is always still considered a medical emergency. You’ll need to bring your dog in for assessment and treatment.
Rather than providing complete immunity against rattlesnake bites, the vaccine protects your dog by reducing the severity of the life-threatening symptoms caused by the venom. Do not delay in seeking treatment after a rattlesnake attack.
Make an Appointment at Our Animal Hospital in Rancho Cucamonga Today
Don’t let the possibility of rattlesnake bites interfere with your plans to enjoy nature with your faithful pet dog. Our warm and caring team has been providing vaccinations against rattlesnake bites for many years and we look forward to helping you safeguard your animal companion too.
For more information on vaccinations and protecting your dog from rattlesnake venom or to make an appointment with your veterinarian in Rancho Cucamonga, contact Day Creek Animal Hospital today.