It's peak rattlesnake season, keep your pet safe with these expert tips

It is peak rattlesnake season, which isn't just dangerous to us, but also to our pets. Veterinarian Dr. Amber Fritz from CityVet tells us how to avoid rattlesnakes and what to do if your pet is injured by one.

"We actually, growing up, we had a little Corgi, and we lost him to a rattlesnake. And they didn't know that's what it was. And my parents live in the country, and we made it to the vet, but it was, it was too late, and it was devastating," recalled Dr. Amber Fritz. "You never want a family to have to go through that, not at all, if it can be preventable."

• Try to avoid them all together.
• Avoid rocky and brushy areas.
• Keep your pets on a shorter leash.
• Make sure your lawn is cared for with short grass and few hiding spots.

Rattlesnake bites often happen on the limbs or the face. If your pet starts limping or their face gets swollen, it's a good time to check for puncture wounds. If you see these signs, take them to a VetER immediately. They have antivenom that will help your pet. Ideally, within an hour of the bite, but if not possible, prevent swelling and inflation with an ice pack. Consider having a snakebite kit on hand in case you live far from an ER and can't get them there immediately.

CityVet
Cibolo Crossing
(210) 809-4505
CityVet.com