Rattlesnake Bites: Canine First Aid
- Everwell Pets
- Apr 29
- 4 min read
If you live in an area where rattlesnakes are common, you know that these venomous snakes can pose a real threat to your pets. The thought of your dog getting bitten by a rattlesnake is terrifying, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference in their recovery. Let's dive into the details of what you should do FIRST on your way to veterinary care.
What Happens When a Rattlesnake Bites?
We discussed in more detail here, Rattlesnake bites are no joke! These venomous snakes inject venom that can cause serious damage and In severe cases, can lead to organ failure and, without treatment, even death.
What To Do If Your Dog Is Bitten?
If your dog is bitten by a rattlesnake, follow these steps immediately:
#1 - Stay Calm: Panicking will only stress your dog more. Take deep breaths and focus on what needs to be done.
#2 - Keep Your Dog Calm: Keep your dog as calm and still as you can. If your pup is small enough, gently carry them—any movement can help the venom spread faster through their body.
#3 - Administer First Aid Homeopathic Remedies
If your dog is bitten by a rattlesnake, your very first move is to calmly, hustle back to your vehicle—whether that's parked right outside or at the trail head after an adventurous hike—and immediately head for the nearest veterinary care center. But there are some practical first aid steps you can take while you're en route, including homeopathy.
Why Homeopathy for Snake Bites?
Homeopathy for snakebites can be helpful in the initial stages following a bite by providing supportive care to manage symptoms and help the body recover. Here’s why it can be effective:
1. Supports the Body's Natural Healing Process:
Homeopathic remedies are designed to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities. In the case of a rattlesnake bite, remedies can help the body manage the trauma while it works to heal itself.
2. Relieves Symptoms of Shock and Trauma:
A rattlesnake bite can cause shock, weakness, pain, and inflammation. Homeopathic remedies can help alleviate these symptoms, making your dog more comfortable while you head to the vet.
3. Minimizes Side Effects from Conventional Treatments:
In some cases, the body may have an adverse reaction to the use of antivenom or other conventional treatments, that we also discuss here. Homeopathy can help support the body during this time, helping to reduce inflammation, prevent further tissue damage, and manage the after effects of both the bite and the medical treatments.
4. Helps with the Healing Process Post-Venom:
After the immediate danger has passed, homeopathic remedies can support tissue regeneration and reduce residual symptoms like swelling, bruising, or pain.
5. Holistic Support for the Immune System:
Homeopathic remedies like Echinacea can help boost the immune system, encouraging the body to fight off potential infections or complications that can arise after a snake bite, such as tissue necrosis or bacterial infection.
6. Complementary to Veterinary Care:
Homeopathy doesn’t replace traditional veterinary treatment but acts as a complementary approach. It can provide comfort and symptom relief during the critical time it takes to reach the vet and can be part of an ongoing healing regimen.
Top Three Homeopathic Remedies for Rattlesnake Bites
#1 - Ledum palustre (Ledum) : This remedy is one of the top go-tos for puncture wounds. Ledum is known for its ability to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation from bites, especially when the bite occurs from sharp objects or creatures with venom (like snakes).
#2 - Apis mellifica (Apis) : This remedy is helpful for swelling, pain, and redness that is associated with bee stings or any venomous bites, including rattlesnakes. Apis can help to alleviate burning, stinging, and swelling that can occur after venom is injected into the system.
#3 Arsenicum album (Arsenicum) + Arnica montana - We like "Your Go 2" by Adored Beast. This powerful blend of two remedies is a must-have for me, especially at the first sign of any trauma, injury. Given that shock and weakness often follow a rattlesnake bite, I always keep this on hand—it’s a go-to product that can make a real difference in those critical moments.
How to Administer These Remedies
When dealing with a rattlesnake bite, the most common potency to use is 30C. While I’m a big fan of wet dosing (will discuss this technique in a future post), a snake bite doesn't allow time for thie method. Instead, drop 2 pellets of Ledum directly into your dog's mouth, then wait 5 to 15 minutes. After that, drop 2 pellets of Apis into their mouth, wait another 5 to 15 minutes, and follow with 2 pumps = a dose of "Your Go 2" directly into their mouth. This alternating remedy protocol can be repeated until you reach the veterinary clinic. Continue alternating remedies every 3 hours for the rest of the day, then twice a day for the next couple of days based on symptoms. If antivenom was used, be sure to contact your homeopath to antidote that medication once your pet has fully recovered.
In Summary
Hiking with your dogs is an amazing way to bond, but it's always important to be prepared for the unexpected—especially when it comes to rattlesnake bites. Homeopathic remedies can help manage pain, swelling, and shock, while you are getting your dog to the vet quickly for possible medical intervention. Stay safe out there, keep your pets protected, and let me know if you've ever had to deal with a rattlesnake bite.
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Citations:
References:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). (2021). "Snakebites in Pets: What You Need to Know."
Meyer, D. A., & Niemeyer, G. (2017). "Treatment of snakebites in small animals." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care.
Homoeopathy Today, "Homeopathic Remedies for Snakebites", National Center for Homeopathy.