Understanding the Dog Rattlesnake Vaccine

Understanding the Dog Rattlesnake Vaccine

Rattlesnakes pose a serious threat to pet dogs, especially those living in the western part of the United States and other areas with large rattlesnake populations. Luckily, modern veterinary medicine offers dogs some extra protection against rattlesnakes in the form of the rattlesnake vaccine.

The vaccine provides the dog’s body with antibodies to fight against rattlesnake venom. The main benefit is to protect your dog from having a severe reaction if they get bitten by a rattlesnake.

In this article, we will be explaining everything that dog owners need to know about the rattlesnake vaccine for dogs. We will also be answering some other commonly asked questions about the vaccine. Let’s get into it.

What is the Dog Rattlesnake Vaccine?

The rattlesnake vaccine for dogs is an FDA-approved, non-core vaccine that is tested and officially considered safe to be used on dogs. Veterinarians may recommend the non-core rattlesnake vaccine for dogs that are at high risk of getting bitten by a rattlesnake.

How Does the Dog Rattlesnake Vaccine Work?

The rattlesnake vaccine protects dogs against rattlesnake venom by providing the dog’s body with antibodies. This vaccine is designed to prevent the dog’s immune system from having an extreme reaction to rattlesnake venom.

This vaccine typically prevents rattlesnake bites from being fatal in vaccinated dogs.

How Long After Receiving the Rattlesnake Vaccine are Dogs Protected?

For most dogs, the rattlesnake vaccine should provide protection about 30 to 45 days after their vaccination. However, it is recommended that dogs under 25 pounds and dogs over 100 pounds receive a booster shot for the rattlesnake vaccine around a month after their initial vaccine. These dogs may need more time before the rattlesnake vaccine provides them with adequate protection.

How Often do Dogs Need to Get the Rattlesnake Vaccine?

It is recommended that dogs receive a rattlesnake vaccine booster shot around once a year. This is for all dogs, no matter how large they are.

Do Dogs Still Need Treatment for a Rattlesnake Bite When They’re Vaccinated?

Yes, dogs still need immediate veterinary treatment after being bitten by a rattlesnake. This is because the vaccine does not completely get rid of life-threatening symptoms of rattlesnake bites in dogs, rather it is designed to reduce the severity of these symptoms. This will allow owners some more time to get their dog to the vet, but it doesn’t replace treatment for rattlesnake bites altogether.

Is the Rattlesnake Vaccine for Dogs Worth It?

The answer to this question depends on the dog owner. The vaccine may very well be worth it for those who live in an area that has a lot of rattlesnakes, especially if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors.

However, if you live in an area that does not have many rattlesnakes, the vaccine is likely not necessary. Remember, this vaccine is only designed to protect dogs against the venom of rattlesnakes, specifically the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake. As a result, the vaccine does not protect dogs against the venom of other species of venomous snakes.

Are There Other Ways to Protect Your Dog from Rattlesnakes?

Luckily, there is more than one way that you can protect your dog against rattlesnakes. Here are a couple of great options.

Classic Prevention

You can never go wrong with classic prevention techniques when it comes to protecting dogs from rattlesnakes. It is always a good idea to cautiously check your property for rattlesnakes. Carefully look in enclosed spaces like under rocks and debris, under porches, and in crawlspaces. It is also a good idea to scan your property for basking rattlesnakes in the mornings.

If you find a rattlesnake on your property, keep your dog from going outside until the rattlesnake is gone. You can call animal control to come and collect the rattlesnake safely.

Many people also choose to use rattlesnake deterrents and similar products to keep rattlesnakes off of their property. Just make sure that these items are safe to have around dogs before using them.

Rattlesnake Training for Dogs

There are also dog training courses that are designed to teach dogs the scent of rattlesnakes so that they can avoid them on their own. This can be a good option for working dogs and dogs that need to spend a lot of time outdoors in an area that is known for rattlesnakes.

This can be done for all kinds of animals, not just rattlesnakes. As a result, this can be a great preventative measure for anyone that lives in an area with any species of venomous snake.

Are There Other Types of Snake Bite Vaccines for Dogs?

No, there are not any other vaccines for dogs that are like the Rattlesnake vaccine.

If you are interested in the dog rattlesnake vaccination near Bulverde, TX, contact Bulverde Animal Hospital. Give us a call today at (830) 438-7200, or request an appointment online.