Desert Dangers in May: Protecting Your Pets from Local Wildlife
This article is one of a three-part series designed to help pet owners prepare for the spring and summer seasons in the Arizona desert - we hope you find it helpful!
As the desert landscape blooms with the vibrant colors of May, it also brings with it some unique hazards for our furry companions. Here in the Tucson, AZ area / Sonoran Desert, we see an uptick in certain dangers that every pet owner needs to be aware of. Let's dive into some of the most pressing concerns this month.
Rattlesnakes: A Venomous Threat
Rattlesnakes are a significant concern in May as the weather warms and they become more active. These venomous reptiles pose a serious threat to our pets.
Which Pets are at the Biggest Risk?
Any pet can be bitten by a rattlesnake, but some are at higher risk due to their behavior and size:
Curious and Energetic Dogs: Dogs that explore off-leash, especially in areas with rocks, bushes, or tall grass, are more likely to encounter snakes. Their inquisitive nature can lead them to investigate a rattling sound or a new smell, putting them in striking distance.
Smaller Dogs: While any bite is dangerous, smaller dogs often receive a proportionally larger dose of venom, making the effects more severe and potentially fatal.
Cats: While often more cautious, outdoor cats are also at risk, especially those who hunt or roam freely.
What Could Happen if Bitten?
A rattlesnake bite can have devastating consequences, including:
Severe Pain and Swelling: The bite area will typically become intensely painful and swell rapidly.
Tissue Damage: The venom contains enzymes that break down tissue, leading to significant damage around the bite site.
Blood Clotting Issues: Rattlesnake venom can interfere with blood clotting, causing uncontrolled bleeding.
Neurologic Effects: Some venoms can affect the nervous system, leading to weakness, tremors, or even paralysis.
Respiratory Distress: Swelling in the airway or neurological effects can make breathing difficult.
Organ Damage: In severe cases, the venom can damage vital organs like the kidneys and heart.
Death: Without prompt and appropriate treatment, a rattlesnake bite can be fatal.
Signs of a Rattlesnake Bite
Recognizing the signs of a rattlesnake bite is crucial for seeking immediate veterinary care. These signs can include:
Sudden yelping or crying out.
Visible puncture wounds (though sometimes these can be difficult to see due to swelling and fur).
Rapid and progressive swelling at the bite site.
Lameness or reluctance to put weight on a limb.
Excessive drooling or panting.
Weakness or lethargy.
Muscle tremors or twitching.
Bruising or discoloration around the bite.
Treating a Rattlesnake Bite
If you suspect your pet has been bitten by a rattlesnake, time is of the essence. Follow these crucial steps:
Stay Calm: Your pet will sense your panic. Try to remain calm and move your pet to a safe area.
Limit Movement: Restrict your pet's activity as much as possible to slow the spread of venom. Do not encourage them to walk.
Do NOT Apply a Tourniquet: This can restrict blood flow and cause more damage.
Do NOT Try to Suck Out the Venom: This is ineffective and can introduce bacteria into the wound.
Seek IMMEDIATE Veterinary Care: This is not something you can treat at home. Antivenom is the most effective treatment and needs to be administered by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Call Your Veterinarian: Alert your clinic that you are on your way with a snakebite case so they can prepare.
What can I do to reduce my pet’s risk?
Rattlesnake avoidance training: This is what the veterinarians at Orange Grove Animal Hospital recommend. These sessions teach your dog to recognize and avoid rattlesnakes by sight, smell, and sound.
Animal Magnetism: https://www.animalmagnetism.biz/
Sublime Canine: https://sublimek9.com/
Fun Fact: The venomous animals used by both of these companies are also patients of Dr. Walter Merker’s!
What about the rattlesnake vaccine?
We do not carry the rattlesnake vaccine at our clinic, nor do we recommend it. There is currently no published data that documents the efficacy of the vaccine against western diamondback envenomation.
https://www.aaha.org/resources/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/rattlesnake-toxoid/
Bufo Toad Toxicity: A Dangerous Lick
Finally, we need to discuss the Bufo toad (also known as the Cane toad or Marine toad). These large toads secrete a potent toxin from glands on their skin.
The Risk: If a dog (or cat) licks, chews on, or even just mouths a Bufo toad, they can rapidly absorb this toxin.
Signs: Symptoms can appear very quickly and can be severe, including excessive drooling, vomiting, bright red gums, disorientation, tremors, seizures, and even death.
Treatment: If you suspect your pet has come into contact with a Bufo toad, immediately rinse their mouth out thoroughly with running water for 5-10 minutes, being careful not to let them swallow the water. Then, seek IMMEDIATE veterinary care. There is no antidote, and treatment focuses on supportive care to manage the toxic effects.
Gila Monsters
Why are Gila Monsters a Threat to Pets?
Curious dogs and cats, with their instinct to investigate and sometimes harass wildlife, are most at risk. A Gila monster bite can cause intense pain, swelling, and in some cases, more severe systemic effects due to their neurotoxic venom. The lizard's tenacious grip can also make removal difficult, prolonging venom delivery.
What to Do If Your Pet is Bitten:
If, despite your best efforts, your pet is bitten by a Gila monster, immediate veterinary attention is crucial. Here's what you should do:
Stay calm: Panicking will not help the situation.
Do not try to pull the lizard off forcefully: This could cause more tissue damage and potentially inject more venom.
Try to gently encourage the lizard to release its grip: Sometimes running water over the bite area or gently prying the mouth open with a sturdy, flat object (like a credit card) can work.
Transport your pet to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately: Time is of the essence.
If possible, safely take a picture of the Gila monster: This can help your veterinarian with identification and treatment planning. However, do not put yourself or others at risk to do so.
Protecting Your Pets
Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are a few tips to help keep your pets safe in the desert during May:
Keep dogs on a leash: This will help prevent them from wandering into areas where they might encounter snakes or cacti.
Be vigilant during walks: Scan your surroundings for potential hazards.
Avoid walking pets at dawn and dusk: These are peak activity times for rattlesnakes.
Consider rattlesnake avoidance training for dogs: This can teach them to recognize and avoid snakes.
Keep your yard clear: Remove brush piles, woodpiles, and other debris where snakes might hide.
Supervise pets in the yard: Don't leave them unattended for long periods.
Be aware of where Bufo toads might be present: They are often found near water sources, especially after rain.
The beauty of the desert in May comes with certain responsibilities for pet owners. By being aware of these potential dangers and taking precautions, we can help ensure our beloved companions stay safe and healthy. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us!
