Rattlesnake Vaccine for Dogs May Be Back on the Market – But Questions Remain

Earlier this year, the USDA license for the production of the dog rattlesnake vaccine expired, leaving veterinarians and dog owners without access to new doses. The halt in production caused concern across the Southwest, where rattlesnake encounters are a common hazard for adventurous pups.

Now, as of May 26, 2025, several veterinary outlets and industry sources report that Red Rock Biologics’ conditional license for the vaccine may be reinstated. If confirmed, this would allow production and distribution to resume — a welcome update for veterinarians in Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and other rattlesnake-prone regions.

Despite these reports, Dog Friendly Las Vegas was unable to independently verify USDA confirmation. The agency’s website is currently offline, and the last official update remains from April 2025. For this reason, pet owners and veterinarians are urged to stay cautious and continue considering alternative safety measures if your veterinarian is unable to verify or access the vaccine.

The rattlesnake vaccine was initially licensed as a conditional product in 2003 and has been debated ever since. Some studies, including research cited by NCBI, suggest the vaccine may not significantly reduce the effects of venom compared with unvaccinated dogs. Still, many dog owners and veterinarians rely on it as one component of a broader safety strategy.

In the meantime, experts continue to recommend preventive measures: keeping dogs on leash in rattlesnake territory, avoiding tall grass and rocky areas where snakes may hide, and remaining vigilant during hikes or camping trips. While the vaccine may return to shelves, these precautions remain the first line of defense.

For dog owners in desert regions, the potential reinstatement of the vaccine is hopeful news, but it also underscores the importance of staying informed and proactive. Until official confirmation is posted by the USDA, consider all safety measures in combination with any vaccination plan for your dog.

Interested in learning more about the license expiration?  Visit our earlier coverage Dog Rattlesnake Vaccine License Expires, How this Impacts You.