Warm weather means more walks, hikes, and outdoor play. But in Arizona, it also means rattlesnakes. Vets in Gilbert are raising red flags as bite cases climb fast, especially among dogs.
Arizona heat brings snakes out earlier and in greater numbers. Veterinarians at the AVECCC say they have seen more dogs with bites in the past few weeks than usual for this time of year.
Most rattlesnake bites happen when pets roam off-trail or sniff around in brush. Long leashes also make it easier for pets to stray into danger. Vets are telling owners to keep pets close, stick to open paths, and avoid tall grass where snakes like to hide.
At AVECCC, Dr. Hopey treats bite cases regularly. Her main message is, do not wait. She says the faster your pet gets emergency help, the better their chance of survival. Antivenom works, but only if it is given before the venom spreads too far.
Murphy, a 12-year-old Chihuahua, was bitten near Gold Canyon. His face swelled fast, and he needed two vials of antivenom. He survived because his owner acted immediately.
However, you might not see a bite wound right after it happens. Sometimes, swelling or pain doesn’t kick in for hours. Other signs like weakness, shaking, or trouble breathing can also show up late. If you suspect a bite, don’t wait for symptoms. Seek help ASAP!
Each vial of antivenom can cost hundreds, and some pets need more than one. But skipping treatment could mean organ failure or death. Clinics try to keep costs clear and work fast to stabilize pets.
Tima Miroshnichenko / Pexels | Owners often don’t realize how common these bites are. Even snakes with no rattle warning can strike in an instant, so seeking help ASAP is crucial.
Experts say using a short leash is the easiest way to cut risk. It gives you more control and keeps your pet within a safe range. Most bites happen when pets wander ahead or poke around near rocks or logs. Keep them near your side.
Arizona’s dry terrain makes camouflage easy for snakes. They can sit still for hours, blending with dirt, brush, or shade. Many pet owners never see the snake, just the bite symptoms. This is why vets stress trail awareness over visual checks.
Swelling near the bite site is the most common clue. But tremors, vomiting, drooling, and trouble breathing are also red flags. If your pet suddenly seems weak or unsteady, and you have been outside, a snakebite should be on your radar.
Remember, rattlesnakes don’t vanish after summer starts. Warmer temperatures keep them active well into fall. In Arizona, bites can happen from March through October. Staying alert during this entire window matters more than just watching out in spring.
Cats are also vulnerable, especially outdoor ones. They tend to explore quiet corners or chase movement, both high-risk behaviors. Most bite cases are dogs, but that doesn’t mean cats are safe. Keep outdoor cats supervised or indoors.