What do Arizona pet owners and rattlesnakes have in common? They’ve made their homes here in the desert Southwest. But did you know that there is now a vaccine for your pets against rattlesnake bites? Our very own Dr. Holmes said that the vaccine works by generating protective antibodies against the venom in a vaccinated dog. These protective antibodies then begin neutralizing any venom encountered immediately following a rattlesnake bite which, in turn, cause less severe effects such as less swelling, less pain, and hopefully, a faster recovery.

But just because your dog has the vaccine doesn’t mean you should not take him or her to a clinic if they’ve been bitten!! Your pet will still need to be seen by a doctor, and you should still use our rattlesnake first aid.

Our doctors recommend that you consider vaccinating your dog with rattlesnake vaccine. For additional information on this new vaccine, check out the manufacturer’s website at www.redrockbiologics.com.