This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Rattlesnake Vaccine Could Save Your Dog's Life

Approximately 150,000 dogs and cats are bitten annually in the United States by venomous snakes.

If your lifestyle includes hiking, camping or walking trails with your dog, you might want to consider asking your veterinarian about rattlesnake vaccine for canines. 

According to Red Rock Biologics, one pharmaceutical company that offers an approved rattlesnake vaccine, approximately 150,000 dogs and cats are bitten annually in the United States by venomous snakes.

Rattlsnake bites have the potential to kill pets and are known to cause serious liver and neurological damage.

Find out what's happening in Lake Elsinore-Wildomarwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Rattlesnake vaccine works by stimulating the dog’s immune system to produce antibodies against the snake venom, which lessens negative reactions if an animal is bitten.

Depending on the vaccine manufacturer, it typically takes up to 30 days after rattlesnake vaccination before a pet is protected.

Find out what's happening in Lake Elsinore-Wildomarwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Even if a pet is vaccinated, seek immediate veterinary attention for the animal if it's bitten by a rattesnake. 

Don't have a dog to walk with out on trails? Check out this week's adoptable  companions at the .

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?