Las Vegas is obviously famous for its casino’s, dining and nightlife, but it serves as home not only to local humans and dogs, but snakes. . . including several rattlesnake species, such as the Western Diamondback and Mojave. These snakes inhabit many areas around the city, posing a potential risk to pets, especially dogs when they’re out adventuring. 

What About the Snakes? 

Rattlesnakes are most active during the warmer months, particularly from spring through early fall. They like to spend their time basking in the sun or hiding in rocky crevices, and while they typically avoid humans, they can certainly be aggressive. Dogs, curious by nature, often approach snakes that they do see, rather than head the other direction. 

A threatened snake is often a deadly snake, so avoidance is key for both you and your pet. Even with the best of pups, they can get in to trouble by simply not seeing the snake, with less clear depth and color perception than we humans, roving dogs have been known to step directly on a snake by accident. 

What Is the Risk for You and Your Dog? 

While hikers and adventurers shouldn’t necessarily live in fear if planning a trip to the desert, it is important to plan for what may come.  Snakes aren’t looking to be social, but if you’re actively aware and stay alert visually and to sounds, there’s a decent likelihood you’ll see one, or at the least, pass many that you don’t. 

It’s no news flash that many snakes in the desert are venomous, so for humans and pets alike, that venom can be deadly or life-changing if not. 

How Do I Protect My Dog From Snakes in Nevada?

To mitigate the risks of rattlesnake bites, a rattlesnake vaccination for dogs is available. This vaccine reduces the severity of symptoms from venomous bites, providing critical time for pet owners to seek veterinary care. It’s important to note that the vaccine does not offer complete immunity but helps the dog’s immune system respond more effectively to the venom. 

These vaccinations do often require an initial shot followed a few weeks later with a booster shot if it’s your dog’s first time. Plan accordingly with the timing of the shot if you intend to get the vaccination prior to travel with your pet. For pet owners venturing into the Las Vegas wilderness, vaccination should be seriously considered as the more you’re in the areas, the more likely an encounter will become. 

In addition to vaccination, taking a rattlesnake avoidance class can be beneficial for dogs and owners that spend significant time outdoors. This training teaches dogs to recognize the scent and sounds of rattlesnakes, helping them avoid encounters. For owners, the class can offer some insightful information about your dog, how they behave around snakes and some dog facts that you may not have previously been aware of. In addition, educating yourself on rattlesnake bite signs—such as swelling and bleeding—can also be invaluable. 

If you’re local to Las Vegas and looking for a class, Get Rattled is hosting an event March 28^th in Boulder City and another March 29^th in Las Vegas.