Summertime Hiking Tips

Since it’s summer a lot of you will be spending time outside enjoying nature with your pet.  In my next few posts, I’m going to be writing about how to protect your dog from snakes. 

Being outdoors is a great bonding experience … we just need to take few precautions to stay safe.

BE ALERT — Always keep your dog leashed on the trail and close to you. (In narrow trails, I always keep my dog (leashed) behind me — it gives me time to spot a snake before she does.)  

Please do NOT rely on Rattlesnake Vaccines!!!  Yes, the vaccine gives you extra time … but ONLY if you carry your dog all the way to your car and into the Vet’s office!  It’s EXTREMELY important to limit movement to keep the venom from circulating throughout the body!  (Note: Rattlesnake vaccines are not effective to Coral snake, Mojave Rattlesnakes and Water Moccasin) 

You may be asking … how about Snake Aversion Training?  

Sure it helps, but it’s NOT foolproof!  When dogs are overly excited, their adrenaline can override training, making them vulnerable and likely to get bitten by a snake.

So, there’s lots to think about out there and in my next post we’re going to talk about how proper training can save your dogs life. Until then!

With love and kindness,  

Teka