The rattlesnake vaccine is designed to help increase immunity against envenomations from the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake.  Proteins commonly found in the Western Diamondback’s venom are used in the vaccine to boost protective immunity.  The vaccine’s goal is to reduce the immune system’s reaction to a snake bite, but it will NOT prevent a reaction from happening at all.  It is a vaccine that may be considered for dogs that are often hunting, at farms, at lakes, or in other situations that expose them to snakes often.  If you and your veterinarian decide that this vaccine would be beneficial for your dog, an initial series of 2-3 shots (depending on size of the dog) each one month apart is required, followed by an annual booster.

It is VERY IMPORTANT to remember that any dog that is bitten by a venomous snake should still be taken to see a veterinarian for 2 very important reasons:

• We rarely know what kind of snake is actually responsible for the attack.  This vaccine is only designed to protect against the Western Diamondback, so attacks from Cottonmouths, Copperheads or other venomous snakes will still need serious medical attention.
• The level of envenomation with each snake bite varies greatly from bite to bite.  While the reaction to a bite from a Western Diamondback should be reduced, a severe attack may still be fatal to a vaccinated dog.

As with any vaccine, there are always benefits and risks that should be discussed with your veterinarian.  If you are interested in this vaccine or have any questions, feel free to call your veterinarian and discuss what would be best for your dog.