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Vaccination Protects Dogs From Rattlesnake Bites

Vicki

Administrator
Alamogordo Daily News
By Janessa Maxilom, Staff Intern
Posted: 06/16/2009 12:00:00 AM MDT





It's the time of year when rattlesnakes are more commonly seen, but the danger from a bite can be reduced for dogs.

Rattlesnakes are most active during warm weather, usually from spring to autumn, according to the Desert USA Web site.

For dog owners who live in areas where rattlesnakes are more frequently found, a vaccine that protects against rattlesnake bites is available at local veterinarian clinics.

According to the Red Rock Biologics' Web site, the vaccine is licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture. The company manufactures the vaccine for canines.

The vaccine was developed to protect against western diamondback rattlesnake venom. According to Dr. G.L. Wiley, from the Alamogordo Animal Hospital, the most common rattlesnake in the area is the western diamondback.

A rattlesnake bite is considered a veterinary emergency and a bite can result in serious injury or even death to thousands of dogs each year, according to Red Rock Biologics.

The vaccine stimulates a dog's immunity and helps produce protective antibodies that help neutralize rattlesnake venom.
According to Red Rock Biologics, a vaccinated dog experiences less pain and has a reduced risk of permanent injury.

A vaccinated dog that has been bitten by a rattlesnake should still be taken to a veterinarian for inspection and care because the type of snake is often unknown, according to the Web site.

The vaccination also helps fight the snake venom, but infection from a bite can still occur, which means a dog may still need antibiotics for treatment.

"The vaccine is safe for use in pregnant and lactating dogs, puppies as young as four months and healthy older dogs," according to Red Rock Biologics. According to Wiley, the vaccine is still considered in the experimental stage.

"This is the third year the vaccine has been administered by veterinarians," Wiley said.
The vaccine does not provide protection against the venom of water moccasins (cottonmouth), Mojave rattlesnake or coral snakes.
A possible side effect from the vaccine is mild swelling at the injection site, but Red Rock Biologics says it happens in less than one percent of vaccinations.

Other possible side effects include mild cases of vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy for one to two days after the vaccination.
"Cases of life-threatening anaphylaxis are rare," according to Red Rock Biologics. Anaphylaxis is an acute, allergic reaction to the vaccine.
The price for administering the vaccine is set by veterinarians. It is recommended by Red Rock Biologics to talk with a veterinarian about the risks of vaccination.

The vaccine is currently being developed and modified for horses.
For more information about Red Rock Biologics visit www.redrockbiologics.com.
Janessa Maxilom is an Alamogordo resident and a senior at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces.



http://www.alamogordonews.com/news/ci_12597433