LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – As a heatwave continues across the South Plains, rattlesnakes are becoming more active, and veterinarians are urging pet owners to stay alert.
Dr. Heidi Roman-Petroski, associate veterinarian at Live Oak Animal Hospital, said a bite can escalate into an emergency quickly.
“Swelling is going to be your number one thing. You’re typically going to see some type of puncture wound as well that will potentially be bloody,” Roman-Petroski said.
Rattlesnake venom can cause severe tissue damage, blood-clotting problems, and can send a pet into shock if left untreated. Treatment may include anti-venom, pain management, and IV fluids. Costs can vary depending on the severity of the bite and the length of care required.
Roman-Petroski warned against attempting to treat a bite at home.
“As far as not being able to do the antitoxin, I absolutely understand that, but I would 100% recommend if there’s any way to do the antitoxin that that’s going to be the best chance of survival,” she said.
Sarah Hollers, executive director at South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, said rattlesnakes do not seek out confrontation.
“They feel like they’re about to die or they’re protecting themselves. They really don’t want to bite because that venom does take a little bit to come back,” Hollers said.
Hollers said snakes are more likely to strike curious pets that get too close, because pets resemble natural predators such as foxes and badgers.
Roman-Petroski said pet owners who suspect their animal has been bitten should not wait for symptoms to worsen and should get to a veterinary clinic immediately.
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