Do you need to snake proof your dog?
Every Year I hear stories of pets that have been bitten by a rattlesnake. Some survive and some don't. Well, this year is no different. Except, that it seems to be starting earlier than usual.
I recently read a post from my veterinarian that they 
already have several snake bite victims in the hospital. This is leading them to believe that this is going to be a bad year for snake bites.
Dr Cliff Faver of Animal Heal Services has written a blog on rattlesnake fallacies.
•Rattlesnake bites are always fatal
•Baby rattlesnakes are more toxic than adults
•Dogs and cats will do fine without treatment of any kind.
•The only treatment needed is a little cortisone and they will be fine
•Rattlesnakes will chase you and can jump 10 feet
•You should cut the rattlesnake fang mark in an X and suck out the venom
•Rattlesnakes are only a threat during the day.
So that leads me back to my original question. Do you need to snake proof your dog? That I think depends on where you live and your life style. Certainly, if you live in area with Rattlesnakes it is something to think about. Here are a couple other questions to ask yourself.
1. Do you live in a suburban area?
2. Do your dogs ever go outdoors?
3. Do you take your dogs to parks or recreational areas to walk, play or run free?
If you answered yes to any of these questions then I think your answer needs to be yes.
I have recently had the opportunity to see snake proofing in action at a North valley dog training site called Partners Dog Training School and have come to believe that this is a must for any dog living in the Phoenix area. There are many different trainers that offer this service and each will tell you their method gets the best results. So, please do your research before choosing who you take your dog to for this service. Remember your dog’s life is in their hands.
For me, I believe in the method and service that Partners Dog Training School offers.
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