Snake-proof your dog

As the weather begins to warm and more people walk their dogs through the desert, the amount of snake bites to dogs also rises.

“We do see snake bites on a fairly regular basis this time of year,” said Claudia Wolff, a veterinary technician and dog obedience instructor.

Nancy Woodside and her husband have endured the panic of a pet being bitten not once, but twice.

That’s when they decided it was time to enroll the four dogs in rattlesnake avoidance training classes.

During these classes dogs are introduced to muzzled snakes and given negative reinforcement through a shock collar, said Wolff.

“It is a little harsh, but would you rather have your dog shocked a couple of times or dead from a snake bite?” Wolff questioned.

After only about 20 minutes of training, most dogs learn to stay away from the snakes. They learn to recognize the snake’s look and smell.

Woodside’s terrier recently had to put the training to the test when a snake showed up on the couple’s back porch. Instead of going near it when it struck it jumped back quickly, Woodside said.

The course costs $70 per dog and is conducted by Patrick Callaghan who travels throughout Southern California holding these sessions.

“Anybody that lives out here with a dog should go through this training,” said Woodside.

Did you  know?
• Each year, over one million snake bites are reported for dogs and cats. Dogs are the most likely to fall victim to the deadly bites.
• Should your pet be bitten by a snake, it is imperative you take your dog or cat to the vet. 
• There are many varieties of poisonous snakes, although the rattlesnake is the most common.

Tips to help protect your dog:
• Always walk it on a leash.
• Keep your pet by your side.
• Do not let your dog explore brushy areas or holes in the ground.
• If you encounter a rattlesnake, keep your dog by your side and slowly move away from it.

Source:  ThePetCenter.com