As the heat starts to warm up the San Joaquin and Central Valley we appreciate the warmer weather, and so do the rattlesnakes. Rattlesnakes are commonly found here in Visalia and are one of several species of snakes that are native to our area. Even though many of us do not enjoy snakes they are beneficial to our environment and deserve our respect. Knowing that rattlesnakes are going to be part of our San Joaquin Valley world, how do we keep our clients, our pets, and our families safe?
Keeping your dog safe
Our dogs are part of our family, and we want to do our best to keep them safe from danger. Rattlesnakes are commonly found in rocky terrain, desert, forests and prairies. Our landscapes at home, especially if kept native can at times have a snake visitor or two.
If you’re out and about:
• Leash up – keep your dog close and on a leash always – snake bites happen less than a few feet from the main trail – keep your pet close.
• Stay on the trail – and look ahead for snakes
• Avoid tall grassy areas
• Carry your phone for emergencies and know your vet number
• Avoid climbing over rocks
If you see a snake leave it alone and steer clear. One thing to consider is the rattlesnake vaccine. It isn’t a cure, but it can lessen pain and slow the progression of the venom. Antivenom will still be critical. If your dog was out of sight for any length of time or off-trail be sure to take note of some possible symptoms. Once your dog is in sight look for any puncture wounds, swelling, bleeding, excessive panting or drooling, restlessness, pain, tremors, seizures, diarrhea, or breathing problems. Get to a vet immediately if necessary.
You could also take advantage of local rattlesnake safety and avoidance classes that are great for teaching your dog to avoid the sight or sound of a rattlesnake. This training will help if they come onto your property or if you encounter them on a walk or hike.
Tips to help keep your property snake free
Despite what you may have heard, dog poop will not keep snakes away, it could attract them. It’s important to keep your yard clean. Snakes thrive in messy environments and love to hide in junk, and woodpiles. Debris and animal waste will attract rodents, and rodents will attract snakes. Be careful to be tidy with bird feeders and dog food bowls.
Keep your grass short. This way you can see a snake easily and they won’t feel as safe and hidden. Snakes also enjoy water, so do your best to clean up any damp areas and accessible water sources. Even a child’s wading pool could be a snake attractant.
Take the time to seal any gaps under your house with an expanding foam. Removing these small openings will prevent them from making a home at the bottom of your house. Another option for keeping snakes out of your yard is to install a snake-proof fence
If a snake does enter your yard, keep pets and kids inside the house. Generally, the snake will slither off but occasionally they will linger if they have built a den. If the snake hangs around more than 30 minutes call animal control.
Snakes are a part of our environment and education is always the first step toward preventing unwanted injuries. Take the time to educate your family on the steps to take when you come in contact with or are bitten by a rattlesnake. We hope you enjoy a safe and happy summer!