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.<\/p>\n
Dr. Heidi Roman-Petroski, associate veterinarian at Live Oak Animal Hospital, said a bite can escalate into an emergency quickly.<\/p>\n
\u201cSwelling is going to be your number one thing. You\u2019re typically going to see some type of puncture wound as well that will potentially be bloody,\u201d Roman-Petroski said.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Roman-Petroski warned against attempting to treat a bite at home.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs far as not being able to do the antitoxin, I absolutely understand that, but I would 100% recommend if there\u2019s any way to do the antitoxin that that\u2019s going to be the best chance of survival,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Sarah Hollers, executive director at South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, said rattlesnakes do not seek out confrontation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey feel like they\u2019re about to die or they\u2019re protecting themselves. They really don\u2019t want to bite because that venom does take a little bit to come back,\u201d Hollers said.<\/p>\n
Hollers said snakes are more likely to strike curious pets that get too close, because pets resemble natural predators such as foxes and badgers.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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