Just as with any vaccine, nothing is 100%, but when it comes to a Rattlesnake bite, every little bit counts. Snake bites are complex medical emergencies and all snake bites are not created equal. Whether vaccinated with the Rattlesnake vaccine or not, the situation should be treated as a medical emergency and veterinary attention should be sought. The good news is, the vaccine helps by simulating a dog's immunity to defend itself against the toxins in the snake venom, thereby reducing the severity, delaying the effects of the bite and decreasing recovery time.
This vaccine can be given to any dog over the age of four months. An initial vaccine is given and thirty days later a booster vaccine. Dogs weighing under thirty pounds should have a third vaccine thirty days after the second vaccine. The vaccine is not labeled for use in cats, but many veterinarians, including myself, have successfully used the vaccine in cats.
Side effects are typical of any other vaccine and are rare. A temporary lump at the site of the vaccine is the most common complaint. These lumps usually are not painful to the animal and regress in 2-3 weeks. Less commonly, owners will complain of flu-like symptoms. Nonetheless, any side effect attributable to the vaccine will be much easier to treat than a snake bite.
It must be stated again, despite being vaccinated with the Rattlesnake vaccine, a snake bite should still be treated as a medical emergency. Do not make the mistake of delaying treatment in your pet. It could be the difference between life and death. The cost of the vaccine is $25 per injection at Leesburg Animal Hospital. For further information or to make an appointment for your pet to be vaccinated please call the office at 229-759-8384. We look forward to seeing you!