04/09/2026
The chances of your dog getting bit by a rattlesnake are slim, but they are definitely not zero!
A heads-up for hikers: We were recently out in the Shell Ridge Open Space, and the 10 feet of brush on either side of the fire trail hadn’t been cut back yet. Even though this is done annually, the grass was still high at the end of March.
If you are a frequent hiker- especially in the East Bay and through the Caldecott Tunnel, I highly suggest having your dog vaccinated.
What you need to know about the vaccine:
• How it works: It requires two booster shots the first year, followed by an annual booster.
• Why it matters: It doesn’t necessarily save them on its own, but it buys you critical time to get them to a veterinarian for proper anti-venom treatment.
This hit home for us just last week. A dog in my off-leash group was bit. Thankfully only one fang fully penetrated, but he still required two treatments of anti-venom. It is a terrifying experience for both the dog and the owner. The fear is very, very real.
đź“© Contact me today for tips on trail safety for your pup!
đź“ŤEast Bay, CA
