Rattlesnake Bites in California 2025 🐍🆘: What Pet Owners Need to Know

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc, Ask A Vet Blog
Published: July 7, 2025

Rattlesnakes are a real risk for dogs living or hiking in California. Every year, dozens of pets experience painful—and sometimes deadly—encounters with venomous snakes. But with proper knowledge, timely treatment, and preventive steps like vaccination and avoidance training, you can protect your furry friend. 🐾

🧬 Rattlesnakes: California’s Only Venomous Snake

California is home to eight native rattlesnake species including:

• Southern Pacific Rattlesnake
• Red Diamond Rattlesnake
• Western Diamondback
• Speckled Rattlesnake
• Mojave Green Rattlesnake

These snakes belong to a group called pit vipers (Crotalines), known for their hinged fangs and facial heat-sensing “pits.” The Mojave Green is particularly dangerous because its venom causes neurotoxic paralysis rather than just local tissue damage. 😨

🐕 Common Scenarios Where Dogs Get Bitten

Most bites occur when curious dogs encounter snakes in brushy or rocky areas during hikes or even in suburban backyards. Southern California dogs are at risk year-round, while in Northern California, bites are most common between March and September. 🚶‍♂️🌾

🔍 Bite Severity Depends On:

• The species of snake
• The size of the dog
• Bite location (face, legs, etc.)
• How much venom was injected

💉 Signs of a Rattlesnake Bite

• Sudden pain or yelping
• Rapid swelling near the bite site
• Puncture wounds
• Bruising, oozing, or bleeding
• Collapse or breathing issues (especially with Mojave bites)

⚠️ Emergency Treatment: What to Do Immediately

1. 🚨 Stay calm and get to a vet immediately.
2. ⛔ Do NOT cut, suck, or ice the wound.
3. 🐕 Remove collars if the bite is on the face/neck (to allow for swelling).
4. 🩹 Do NOT apply tourniquets or pressure wraps unless advised by a vet.

🏥 Veterinary Treatment Options

• IV Fluids – To stabilize blood pressure and circulation.
• Antivenin – Contains antibodies that neutralize venom (must be given within 4 hours).
• Pain relief & wound care – Managing inflammation and pain.

💸 Antivenin (e.g., CroFab®, VenomVet®, Rattler Antivenin®) can cost $400–$700+ per vial and several vials may be needed depending on the bite severity and dog size.

💉 Rattlesnake Vaccine (Red Rock Biologics)

This vaccine helps reduce the severity of bites from the Western Diamondback and several other species, but not the Mojave Green.

Vaccine Schedule:

• 💉 Two doses 3–6 weeks apart for most dogs
• 🐶 Dogs under 30 lbs or over 100 lbs need three initial doses
• 🔁 Annual booster recommended in spring (or every 6 months if hiking year-round)

Vaccination does not eliminate the need for emergency care but can reduce severity and improve outcomes. Reactions are rare (0.27%) and usually mild. 🩺

🎓 Snake Avoidance Training

Training your dog to recognize and avoid snakes using sight, sound, and scent is a powerful prevention tool. Classes are often offered in outdoor or hunting communities. Ask your local trainer or veterinarian about snake avoidance training. 🐾🐍

📱 Emergency Resources

• ASPCA Poison Control: 888-426-4435
• Ask A Vet App: For 24/7 veterinary advice and snakebite guidance

🩺 Dr Duncan Houston’s Final Advice

Every snakebite should be treated as an emergency, even if your dog is vaccinated. Time is critical—get to a vet immediately. The faster your dog receives IV fluids and antivenin, the better the outcome. If you live in or visit rattlesnake country, be prepared with training, vaccination, and an emergency plan. 🏞️🐶

Download the Ask A Vet App for immediate help, or visit AskAVet.com to consult directly with a vet today. 🐾