The Crotalus Atrox Toxoid, Rattlesnake vaccine is intended for prophylactic use as an aid in the reduction of morbidity and mortality due to intoxication with Western Diamondback toxin. The vaccine is appropriate for use in healthy dogs that live, play or work in or near rattlesnake habitat or for dogs that are traveling through rattlesnake habitat.

Rattlesnake venom is a complex mixture of about 15 to 20, or more, protein toxins. The specific composition of rattlesnake venom varies between species, individuals within a species, and even within a single animal over time, depending upon age or nutritional status; however, considerable antigenic homology exists. This rattlesnake vaccine is labeled for protection against the venom of the Western diamondback rattlesnake. Antibodies raised in response to vaccination with this product have also been shown to exert a protective effect against the venom of many other U.S. rattlesnakes.

Because of the tremendous number of venom components from the various native U.S. venomous snake species which dogs may be exposed to, our understanding of the range of protection afforded against the venoms of various poisonous snake species by this vaccine is incomplete. For example, antibodies elicited by the vaccine cross-react with the neurotoxin of the Mojave rattlesnake, however it is unclear at this time whether that reaction is sufficiently neutralizing to afford clinically relevant protection against this venom fraction.

The dosing protocol for Rattlesnake Vaccine is as follows. The initial vaccination sequence is two doses spaced one month apart. The minimum amount of time between vaccines is 3 weeks, and the maximum amount of time is 6 weeks. It is recommended to give annual boosters approximately one month prior to potential exposure. Booster doses at 4-6 month intervals during the season may be appropriate for small dogs, dogs at particular risk, or dogs that live in areas with extended seasons of rattlesnake activity.

This vaccine may be used in pregnant or lactating dogs, and dogs as young as four months of age. Nearly all reported adverse effects associated with vaccine use are minor injection site reactions. Systemic adverse effects are rare and generally self-limiting. Vomiting, diarrhea and/or lethargy of one day or less have been reported. There have been no reports of anaphylaxis or death in association with the administration of this product. This vaccine has been safely administered to dogs with a history of rattlesnake envenomation as well as to dogs that have received commercial anti-venom consequent to a prior envenomation. Although the Rattlesnake Vaccine is not labeled for cats, it has been used in a laboratory setting without observing any adverse effects. Research in this area continues.

Dog owners should always bring potentially envenomed dogs to their veterinarian’s office for examination and possible treatment. Clinics that use envenomation treatment protocols based upon an assessment of envenomation severity should continue to do so with vaccinated dogs. Vaccinates typically experience a moderated course of venom toxicity depending upon titer and degree of envenomation and will thus require less intervention than a similar, unvaccinated dog. Anti-venom is not contraindicated in vaccinated dogs and should be used where appropriate. Caution: Small dogs or dogs that have been significantly envenomed may present a delayed onset. Close observation is recommended for up to 24 hours post envenomation.

Even though a dog may be vaccinated against rattlesnake envenomation, snakebite should always be considered a veterinary emergency for the following reasons:

1. The type of snake involved is frequently not known. The vaccine will protect against some species better than others.
2. Antibody titers will vary depending upon the individual dog’s response to the vaccine and the time elapsed since vaccination.
3. The effects of rattlesnake evnenomation are dose and route dependent. Intravenous inoculation of the venom or an exceptionally large dose may overwhelm even the highest antibody titters- especially true in the case of small dogs.
4. Infection secondary to envenomation and/or trauma from the bite itself are potentially serious concerns.

Because of these variables, clients should be urged to seek veterinary evaluation and care as soon as possible following snakebite.


We at Alta Vista Veterinary Hospital also encourage dog owners to consider snake avoidance training. Bill and Tammy Gibbons have worked with thousands of dogs with impressive results. Not only will snake avoidance training possibly save your dog, it may also save you from a rattlesnake bite. Dogs can smell the rattlesnake long before they come in contact with the snake. We have had countless testimonials of how a dog has sensed the rattlesnake while on a hike. This alerts you the hiker, thus sparing you of a very painful encounter with a rattlesnake.

Using this training hand in hand with the new Rattlesnake Vaccine gives you and your dog the utmost protection from rattlesnakes while enjoying our great outdoors. If you have more question in regards to Rattlesnake Vaccine or snake avoidance training, contact Bill or Tammy Gibbons through their website www.magmabirds.com, or contact Alta Vista Veterinary Hospital at 602-277-1464.