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Curiosity gets the cat, but it gets the dog too. Every year all-too-curious dogs are bitten by venomous snakes. My miniature dachshund decided to investigate a rattlesnake several years ago on Mother's Day in a small mountain town an hour from the closest veterinarian. After an extremely costly antivenin injection and an overnight stay in an animal hospital, she was back to her normal mischievous self, but the experience is not one we wish to repeat. With a few simple steps, you can protect your dog from snakebites.

It is unknown how many dogs die each year from snakebites, but it is likely your vet has treated a venomous snakebite. There are four types of venomous snakes in the United States: rattlesnakes, coral snakes, cottonmouths, and copperheads. People often mistakenly believe that if they don't live in a desert, they have nothing to worry about. This is a false assumption. Less than two months after our dachshund was bitten, she stumbled across another rattlesnake in our coastal San Diego neighborhood (which as a whole other story). It's better to be safe than sorry, so consult your veterinarian to determine whether there are dangerous snakes in your area.

Snakebites affect your dog's nervous system and/or blood vessels. In a matter of hours, they can cause severe pain and swelling, paralysis, loss of limbs, and even death. Treatment involves administration of antivenin, which is a serum that contains antibodies specific to the type of snakebite. Antivenin is extremely expensive, ranging from $500 to $1800.

In light of the potential lethal nature of snakebites (and the cost of treatment!), dog owners would be wise to take preventative measures. The following are some steps you can take to protect your furry four-legged friend:

* Consider "snake-proofing" your dog by attending a snake avoidance training class.

* Clear your yard of overgrown plants. Snakes love hiding in vegetation.

* Research the background of your dog's breed. Is the breed known for having an instinctual predator drive? If the answer is yes, keep this in mind and know that you have to particularly cautious. Just because your dog is small doesn't mean it lacks a predator drive. Take miniature dachshunds they live to hunt and will continue to attack snakes even after being bitten (I know from experience!).

* Remember that snakes are nocturnal, so avoid going on walks at night.

* Avoid hiking with your dog during spring and summer.

* Always keep your dog leashed while walking and stay on open, clear paths.

* Prevent your dog from sniffing around in long grass and bushes and under logs and rocks.

* Practice calling your dog while he/she is exploring something to ensure that they will always come to you when called. Do this daily.

By taking these steps, you will greatly reduce the likelihood of your dog being bitten by a snake. For information on what to do if the unthinkable happens and your dog is bitten, see here.

Learn more about this author, Erich Rosenberger M.D..
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