Red Rock Biologics produces a poisonous snake bite vaccine for dogs. The poisonous snake bite vaccine is specific for Western Diamondback rattlesnake bites. It also confers protection against Western Rattlesnake bites and the bites of Sidewinders, Timber Rattlesnakes, Massasaugas and Copperheads. The vaccine for venomous snakes confers partial protection against Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake bites.
Poisonous snake bite vaccine for dogs should be given twice during the first year, with one month between them. Booster vaccinations are needed every spring.
Side effects from poisonous snake bite vaccine for dogs are uncommon. My three dogs had zero side effects. Less than 1 in 100 dogs experience minimal non-painful swelling at the injection site. The swelling usually resolves without treatment. One in 1,000 dogs has experienced gastrointestinal side effects or fatigue from the poisonous snake bite dog vaccine for a couple of days. One to 3 dogs in 1,000,000 may have anaphylactic reaction to the vaccination.
As soon as a vaccinated dog is bitten, antibodies go to work to counteract the venom. A recently vaccinated dog produces antibodies in quantities similar to that produced after treatment with three vials of snake bite antivenin. Vaccinated dogs have less discomfort and less permanent tissue injury.
Most healthy dogs can receive the poisonous snake bite vaccine for dogs. Vaccination can be given to puppies as young as 4 months and to dogs previously bitten (6 weeks recovery time should be allowed between the bite and vaccination). Pregnant and nursing dogs can also be vaccinated. Elderly dogs can also receive the vaccination for dogs.
The cost of snake bite protection for dogs varies between veterinarians. I paid just over $20.00 for the initial vaccination for each of my dogs and $15.00 for each of their boosters.
Anytime a dog receives a bite from a venomous snake, vaccinated or not, it is an emergency. Rattlesnake bites are the most likely to be fatal. Bites by copperheads or water moccasins are less apt to cause death. Get the dog to a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Call the veterinarian to let them know a poisonous snake bite victim is on the way.
Identify the snake so that the veterinarian can make accurate decisions about treatment. If you cannot identify it, make a note of its physical characteristics. The size of the snake is also critical information in estimating how much venom was been injected. This information is essential for selection and dosing of the correct snake bite antivenom.
Between the time of the poisonous snake bite and arriving at the veterinarian, the pet’s activity should be strictly limited. For bigger dogs that cannot be carried, walking should be done slowly. Since venomous snake bite causes extreme pain, avoid touching the area or putting pressure on it. Your dog may bite if you do. Do not apply a tourniquet. Do not suck out or aspirate the poison. Do not apply heat or ice to the wound.
Summary
Poisonous snake bite vaccine for dogs can prevent pain and suffering and may save the dog’s life. Cost is minimal and only yearly boosters are necessary after the initial round of vaccinations. Dogs that are bitten by venomous snakes must get emergency treatment even if they have received the bite vaccine.
SOURCES: Dogs Vaccination for Poisonous Snake Bite. Frequently Asked Questions. Redrockbiologics.com
