A Snake School graduate and his border collie holding their diplomaA graduate and her German shorthaired pointer with their diplomaA graduate and her pit bull, Kalani, with their diplomaA couple and their doodle with their graduation diplomaA graduate and her golden retriever with their diplomaA graduate and her doodle with their diplomaA young graduate and his dog with their diplomaA graduate with her two terriers on graduation day

Snake School Los Angeles

As seen in The Signal, KTLA, New York Post, CBS & KHTS

5.0 on Google · 100+ client reviews · Hundreds of dogs trained in 2026

We don’t cut corners.

A more effective, complete 12-station rattlesnake avoidance course for dogs in Santa Clarita & Greater Los Angeles

  • Safer — every rattlesnake caged, never muzzled
  • More humane — the lowest e-collar level, plus praise and treats
  • More thorough — 30 minutes one-on-one across 12 stations
  • More ethical — every precaution taken to protect the snakes and the dogs
  • Real pros — the wranglers film & TV productions hire
  • Expert trainers — reading your dog’s body language for subtle cues
  • With love — snake lovers & dog lovers

Next: see open dates · Free return all season · Sale ends Nov 21

Trusted by local vets & pro trainers

Leo, a small terrier trained at The Snake School, keeping his distance from a caged live rattlesnake while Scott and Leo's owner look on After training
Inside the box

Only 1 in 100 dogs avoids rattlesnakes on its own (based on Snake School data). After one session, Leo sees the caged rattlesnake, plants his feet and won’t go near it.

A critical difference

Muzzled rattlesnakes vs. secure containment.Why we never use muzzled rattlesnakes

It’s not the same training at a different price. It’s a fundamentally different operation.

Other trainers

Muzzled-snake programs

  • Handlers get bitten while applying muzzles.
  • Muzzles can slip, and are rarely re-checked during class.
  • Rattlesnake fangs are hinged — they can pivot out through gaps.
  • Safety red flags downplayed or ignored.
  • Your dog is put at real risk while you’re told it’s safe.

The Snake School

Containment-based training

  • Zero bites in our program. Ever.
  • Every rattlesnake stays in a sealed, bite-proof enclosure, start to finish.
  • Rigid ¼-inch wire mesh — the UC IPM rattlesnake-proof standard.
  • Run by local rattlesnake catchers with hundreds of removals a year.
  • Engineered containment. No improvisation, no “trust me” moments.

Did you know?

One 30-minute session. Scent, sound & sight. Snake-safe all year.

9 out of 10 dogs are snake-safe after one session.

The method

All three senses. Trained.How rattlesnake avoidance training for dogs works

  • A trainer laying real rattlesnake scent for a dog to find
    01 · Scent

    Scent

    Real rattlesnake scent from the caged snake — so your dog turns away before it ever sees one. Our #1 sense.

  • A hidden speaker used to play rattlesnake sounds
    02 · Sound

    Sound

    Adult and baby rattles on a hidden speaker — your dog learns to avoid the rattle itself.

  • A dog approaching a harmless gopher snake during sight training
    03 · Sight

    Sight

    Harmless gopher snakes, adults and babies, so your dog learns to recognize snakes of every size.

  • A dog jumping away from a securely caged rattlesnake during the final test
    04 · The final test

    Full exposure

    Your dog is exposed to 4 live rattlesnakes in our course — each one securely caged. No prompts, no cues: your dog walks away on its own.

Balanced training: a brief, low-level e-collar signal teaches danger, and praise and treats every time your dog turns away teach avoidance. We never harm dogs, and we have collars for dogs as small as 5 lb. How we train → · E-collar questions →

Plan on annual training

Snake training should be done once a year to maximize memorization.

Free same-year refreshers available.

Especially for puppies around 5 months old and first-time dogs — a second session the same season locks it in.

The Snake School ranch

A permanent ranch. Sessions almost every weekend.

Two Snake School trainers working one-on-one with a German shorthaired pointer at the ranchThe Snake School training ranch in Bouquet Canyon, Santa ClaritaScott working a doodle past a caged rattlesnake station on the courseA road through the 20-acre training ranchAn Australian shepherd on the course in front of the ranch barnThe ranch hills and fence line in Bouquet Canyon
Bouquet Canyon · Santa Clarita
  • Our own 20-acre training ranch in Bouquet Canyon — a permanent course, not a once-a-year pop-up clinic.
  • Sessions nearly every weekend of the season, so you train when it suits you.
  • Book online in about two minutes — pick a time, pay, done.
  • 30 minutes one-on-one for every dog. Never a group.
Our ranch · Santa Clarita Valley30035 Bouquet Canyon RoadSanta Clarita, CA 91350Minutes from Saugus, Valencia, Newhall & Canyon CountryGet directions →

See open dates →

Meet the team

Two handlers. One dog at a time.

Every dog gets two handlers on the course and focused one-on-one attention.

  • Scott QuashenFounder & lead trainer
  • Cary QuashenRattlesnake handler
  • Helena S.Handler & dog trainer
  • Alexandria M.Animal welfare
  • Apani D.Scent detection trainer

Head trainer & the team

Scott Quashen working a doodle on leash past a caged rattlesnake station at the Santa Clarita training ranchScott Quashen training a dog to walk away from a securely caged rattlesnake during a private session on an oceanfront terraceScott Quashen holding a rattlesnake with its mouth banded shut — the muzzled method he learned before building The Snake School around securely caged rattlesnakes
Training day · Santa Clarita ranch

Head trainer

Meet Scott.Santa Clarita’s 5.0★ rattlesnake avoidance trainer

The trainer vets & pro trainers trust with their own dogs.

Scott has spent a lifetime with dogs, and today he does one thing: teaches them to survive rattlesnakes. With his team of trainers and animal experts, he built the ultimate rattlesnake avoidance course — every rattlesnake securely caged. Over 100 people recommend us.

Lifetimewith dogs — now 100% rattlesnake avoidance
100sof dogs snake-trained in 2026
5+ yrshandling venomous snakes — incl. film & TV sets
5.0★Google rating from Snake School families
“All three of my Jacks wouldn’t give any of the snakes a second look. It really is an incredibly effective program.”Kelly Archer · Pro dog trainer, founder of K9 Legacy
Cary Quashen holding a rattlesnake with snake tongsRattlesnake handler

The team

Cary Quashen.

Santa Clarita’s “snake sheriff”

Cary has been handling rattlesnakes for more than 40 years and has safely removed 1,300+ of them from homes around Santa Clarita. He’s the one locals call — and he manages every rattlesnake on our course.

1,300+rattlesnakes removed from SCV homes
40+ yrshandling rattlesnakes
LAFDofficials recommend him by name
PressThe Signal, KTLA, NY Post, CBS, KHTS
Helena riding a chestnut horse in an arenaHandler & dog trainer

The team

Helena S.

Rattlesnake handler & dog trainer

Helena grew up in her mom’s dog boarding business, around every size and temperament of dog. She works the course alongside Scott — and loves the snakes, too.

Raisedin a dog boarding business
Pet sitterfor local families
Equestrianlifelong, calm handling
Handleron every class day
“Every animal is so different and has such a unique personality — even the snakes!”Helena · in her words
Apani standing on a horse trailer above two horsesScent detection trainer

The team

Apani D.

Scent detection dog trainer

Apani spent three years as a ranch and animal trainer before joining us, and recently graduated from a scent-detection dog training program. She’s especially patient with anxious or high-energy dogs.

Scentdetection program graduate
3 yrsranch & animal trainer
Scent workplus agility & service dogs
Patientwith anxious, high-energy dogs
Alexandria sitting with four large dogs on leashAnimal welfare

The team

Alexandria M.

Animal welfare consultant

A veterinary technician college graduate with 5 years in a vet clinic, Alexandria helped design our stress-detection and heat-safety protocols — so every session stays safe and humane on both sides of the leash.

Vet techcollege graduate
5 yrsveterinary clinic experience
Stressdetection protocols
Heatsafety protocols
Southern Pacific rattlesnakes inside secure wire training boxes on turf, fully enclosed and out of reach

Safe for your dog

No bites. No harm.Safe, caged-rattlesnake training for your dog

Zero bites in training, ever. Your dog gets the full scent, sound and sight experience — without ever being in reach of a rattlesnake.

See our safety standards →

A critical difference

What you’re actually comparing.Full 12-station course vs. a quick snake clinic

The Snake School sign: Professional Rattlesnake Avoidance Training for Dogs
A quick clinicThe minimumThe Snake SchoolThe full training
Time with your dog✕A few minutes, many dogs an hour✓30 minutes, one-on-one
Training✕Shed skins or scent jars✓12 stations: scent, sound & sight
The rattlesnakes✕Muzzled snakes — muzzles slip✓Every rattlesnake securely caged
If it doesn’t stick✕One pace for every dog, one try✓Free returns all season
Where✕Busy, distracting settings✓Private 20-acre training ranch
A Southern Pacific rattlesnake, the species in Santa Clarita's hills

Meet your rattlesnakes.

The Southern Pacific rattlesnake carries a mix of hemotoxic (tissue-destroying) and neurotoxic (respiratory failure) venom that varies from snake to snake — so no two bites are the same.

About rattlesnakes →
This is what our handler Cary pulls off Santa Clarita porches. The Southern Pacific’s venom mix varies from snake to snake. Meet your local rattlesnakes →Rattlesnake at your home? Free rattlesnake removal in Santa Clarita from Cary Quashen Rattlesnake Wrangling. Call (661) 713-3006 See Cary on Google ↗

Santa Clarita is rattlesnake country

375+ rattlesnakes caught at local homes this year — including winter.Why Santa Clarita dogs need rattlesnake avoidance training

30K–90K

rattlesnakes living in the hills and canyons around Santa Clarita.Our modeled estimate →

150,000

pets bitten by rattlesnakes in the U.S. every year — most of them dogs.Commonly cited estimate

$2,500+

typical emergency vet bill for a single bite — often $5,000 or more.Antivenom costs →

100sof dogs trained in 2026
9/10snake-safe after one session
Freereturns all season
Zerobites in training, ever

Graduate reviews · Featured on The Signal, KTLA, New York Post, CBS & KHTS

Trusted by pros & families.Rattlesnake avoidance training reviews

  • VEG ER for Pets · Stevenson Ranch24-hour pet ER · recommends us
  • Happy Pets Veterinary CenterVeterinary clinic
  • Sand Canyon Animal HospitalSanta Clarita
  • Pet Hospital of Thousand OaksVeterinary hospital
  • K9 LegacyPro dog training
  • Studio Animal ServicesFilm & TV animal handlers
  • Vets & pet care: VEG ER for Pets (the 24-hour ER carries our flyers and recommends us), Happy Pets Veterinary Center, Sand Canyon Animal Hospital, Pet Hospital of Thousand Oaks and Paws Stay and Play — plus a veterinarian who trained her own Chihuahua, and over a dozen vet techs
  • Pros: Studio Animal Services (film & TV animal handlers), Kelly Archer of K9 Legacy, agility trainers, service-dog handlers and hunting-dog trainers — and over a dozen obedience trainers refer their clients to us
  • Film & TV: major productions hire Scott as their snake safety officer & snake wrangler
  • Plus local pet shops who send their customers our way

What the pros say

K9 Legacy
★★★★★

As someone with training experience, I was thoroughly impressed by their methodology. The setup is out in a dirt field — exactly the real-world environment where you'd actually encounter a snake. It was the ultimate test for my three crazy Jack Russells, who go after absolutely anything.

Kelly Archer
Pro Dog Trainer · Founder, K9 Legacy
Read Kelly's full review →
Studio Animal Services
★★★★★

This course is clearly better than any other rattlesnake avoidance training course we've had — safer and more well thought out than what other trainers do, and the effectiveness is superior. Any way a dog encounters a rattlesnake, the Snake School gives it the best possible chance to avoid it and not be bitten.

Studio Animal Services
Professional Animal Handlers · Trained the Taco Bell Dog & Many Famous Animals
Sand Canyon Animal Hospital
★★★★★

Scott is a very talented avoidance trainer and has put together an amazing team. They do life-saving training for dogs.

Sand Canyon Animal Hospital
Hospital Manager · Santa Clarita
Giovanna Vera with her dog Kalani and their Snake School graduation diploma
★★★★★

Scott was incredibly friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. He used live rattlesnakes in a safe, controlled environment, along with scent and sound, to teach dogs to recognize and avoid the danger. It gave me confidence that my dog, Kalani, was getting realistic, effective training. I highly recommend it to anyone with a dog who hikes, camps, and lives in California.

Giovanna Vera
Staff · Pet Hospital of Thousand Oaks
The Happy Pets Veterinary Center team with their dogs after rattlesnake avoidance training
★★★★★

Happy Pets Veterinary Center featured The Snake School to their clients — and brought their own team's dogs through the course.

Happy Pets Veterinary Center
Veterinary Center

Our graduates

⚠ Real-world encounter“Rattlesnake avoidance training works. I just had a rattlesnake in my backyard. My dogs saw it before I did, and stayed the heck away! Thank you guys!”★★★★★ Proud mother of snake-trained dogs

After-session summaries (100+)

After-session summary
"Yuma, our 5 month old Brittany, is very rambunctious, but managed to do really well in class. We’re going to catch a refresher since he’s so young (at no cost) in about a month."
Joshua Yuma’s Owner
After-session summary
"We have a hunting dog named June who is getting ready for her first trip. Our dog has never seen a snake before, and walked right up to the rattlesnake in the beginning of the class, but learned to avoid them by the end. Thank you guys!"
Darrah June’s Owner · Hunting Dog
After-session summary
"This was a really good training and we are going to do it again next year. Both of our dogs have such different personalities. One is avoidant naturally, and the other is super investigative. The course was delivered uniquely for each dog. Thank you guys!"
William Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"After months of having one of my dogs locked up in the house, due to previous rattlesnake bite, it’s so nice to let the pup out again. Training went well, but I hope it sticks. For this reason we’re going to take them up on a free refresher in about month. And start training again in the spring and make this a regular thing."
Barry Snake School Graduate
"This school was a blessing. My dog needed rattlesnake training and they had opened up a class that I was able to get into. My dog doesn’t go to people she doesn’t know, but they were all so nice that my dog was very comfortable. Scott was very knowledgeable and helpful. I now feel better about my dog going out with me. I highly recommend rattlesnake school."
Kelly Monte’s Owner · Google Review
"Yesterday we successfully trained my two Jack Russell’s to avoid rattlesnakes by smell, sound, and sight in Santa Clarita. Very helpful as they are ratters."
Deborah Former Professional Agility Trainer · Google Review
After-session summary
"My Great Pyrenees was a hard case. He was so disinterested and wouldn’t cue in scent stations or snake stations which made the corrections difficult because they need a solid cue on each station in order to perform a correction. They ended up spending extra time with us, and teaching the dog to discriminate on empty scent packs vs. rattlesnake scented packs. We’re going to continue training with him in a few weeks to solidify his training and do more scent work."
Sophia Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"We brought two dogs with pretty much opposite personalities. One of our dogs either loves you or hates you. We were really happy when that dog bonded with Scott. Which made the training go very smoothly for our Golden Doodle. The other dog, who is a lot more calm, wasn’t paying as much attention in class and will benefit from more training later this year. We’re definitely going back to the snake school!"
Zoltan Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"This is a way improved version of rattlesnake avoidance training for dogs. I have a highly anxious and sensitive dog, and Scott handled this very well. My dog left non-traumatized, and highly prepared for rattlesnake encounters."
Jessica Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My dogs both avoided the rattlesnakes and I'm happy that I can bring them back for even more training in about a month at no cost."
Bary Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Nebula did better than we expected. We're bringing her back for a free refresher in about a month — looking forward to it."

Update: "Nebula did so much better on her second round! You could tell she learned a lot."
Hannah Nebula's Mom · Snake School Graduate
"Super easy and really quick. I'm confident in saying my dog hates rattlesnakes now."
Jack Google Review
After-session summary
"She is ready for hunting season!"
Sunday's Dad Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Lucy made big progress. We're going to do another round at The Snake School shortly."
Lucy's Parents Snake School Graduates
After-session summary
"This program is excellent and a huge improvement on what I've done before. In the other program, the snakes were hooded, stretched out, and behaved completely unnaturally — they didn't even rattle. Your snakes present real-world encounters in realistic places where snakes would be. This is a better program, 100%."
Wayne Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Baxter and Stevie were trained very well. They're as prepared as they possibly could be for a real-world rattlesnake encounter."
Patti & Tom Snake School Graduates
After-session summary
"Thank you guys for training my German Shepherd — the rattlesnake training could not have gone better or been performed better."
Michael Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My sheepadoodle did so well. We focused heavily on positive reinforcement, and he quickly learned that rattlesnakes are a big no-no. I highly recommend training your dog at the Snake School!"
Mike Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I love my GSP so much and felt absolutely wonderful getting him trained. You walk the course with the two handlers and join in on the positive reinforcement when your dog shows positive avoidance. The trainer handles the corrections. But your dog will learn quickly to avoid the rattlesnakes on his/her own — at least Oakley did. My dog left this course completely non-traumatized, and I'm so happy that I did this. Feel so much better. Thanks guys!"
Jessica A. Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Denny and Lilly were trained very well. Highly recommend rattlesnake avoidance training with the Snake School."
Dennis Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"This is a highly professional rattlesnake avoidance training program for dogs that we can't recommend enough."
Paul & Cheryl Snake School Graduates
After-session summary
"This is the best possible snake avoidance program. If you live by a hill, you really need to get your dogs trained in rattlesnake avoidance. This is the place to do it!"
Kelly Professional Dog Trainer · Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"This was an excellent rattlesnake avoidance training and my dog got it 100%."
David Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I'm so happy with Snake School! I'm confident that Maple will avoid snakes now. Thank you so much Scott and Cary."
Kathy Champion Dog Trainer · Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My dog learned so much! This is a life saving training. Thank you both so much for what you do."
Michael Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My 2 dogs were a bit rambunctious and are still puppies but I think they learned a lot. This was a great course. I'm going to recommend my friends and neighbors!"
Francie Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My dog learned so much! He's snake safe now. I want to volunteer with you guys. Thank you so much."
Seth Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My dog didn't naturally avoid the snakes at first, but learned during the course. I'm feeling so much better, and really think he will stay away from snakes now! Thanks guys."
Josh Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Hey Scott! Thanks again for training Kitty. Wanted to see if you could train Cleo's two little dogs next. Proud puppy parents ahahah!"
Erika & Lorenzo Founder of Bug-A-Salt · Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"This was my first session with the dog I have now, and after Snake School I feel confident taking him hunting with me. He'll be off leash and working the entire time — and now I know he'll avoid a rattlesnake if he comes across one."
Shane Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I brought 3 dogs. Two were naturally avoidant right away — the third needed more correction. They adjusted the training for each dog individually. My fourth one is coming next week."
Beth Snake School Graduate
"So Happy with The Snake School! After a close encounter with a rattlesnake on the trail near our home, we had been worried about our dog Barley's safety — also being off-leash much of the time. We are now confident that Barley is prepared to avoid a rattlesnake should an encounter happen in the future. Thank you Snake School :)"
Mark Kiner Google Review
"They were great with my dog she learned a lot ty"
Debbie Google Review
"Scott is one of the nicest guys imaginable. My dogs took to him right off and the training is exceptional. Both my dogs are older so their senses do not allow them to respond to all the stimuli right away but I was blown away by the way Scott adapted the training to give them the best protection possible. I can't recommend this training highly enough and it's an absolute pleasure to give them this five star review."
Josanne Google Review
After-session summary
"My dogs are trained hunting dogs — I was worried a standard course wouldn't cut it. They adapted the whole session around where my dogs specifically needed work. I left genuinely impressed. Honestly I'd volunteer here if I could."
Adolfo Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"You can tell a lot of thought went into this. Good people running it — you feel that the moment you arrive."
Fred Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I came in nervous. Left feeling like my dog was actually safe. Night and day."
Angeline Snake School Graduate
"Very professional people who took good care of us and our dog. The course is laid out well with plenty of safe snake encounters to familiarize the dog with the sight, sound, and smell of rattlesnakes. So important in our area of SoCal."
Patti Sternau Google Review
After-session summary
"Better than I expected, honestly. My dog and I both had a great time. I know my dog will avoid snakes now."
Melanie Champion Dog Trainer · Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"The snake school was a great experience for our 4 dogs. The handlers were gentle and calm, walking the dogs through the different stations and reworking the stations that they showed some signs of struggle with. All 4 dogs passed the course and it was clear they wanted to avoid the snakes!"
Sara Snake School Graduate

"Winston and I just took The Snake School for Dogs, and I think I said, 'This is the best money I've ever spent,' at least five times during the class LOL

Before signing up, I had heard so many amazing things about them from people at the dog park and online, so my expectations were high. Somehow, they still exceeded them.

I had recently moved to Santa Clarita and reached out to ask about their summer discount. They were kind enough to extend it to me, which meant Winston and I were able to take the class during our very first week living in rattlesnake country. That generosity alone meant a lot.

What really impressed me was how incredible Scott was with Winston. He's usually pretty timid around men, but he warmed up to him almost immediately. They were patient, encouraging, and made the whole experience feel comfortable and stress-free.

And the training works FAST!! I was honestly shocked. By the second station, Winston was already avoiding the snakes and their scent entirely. The results started before we had even finished the class. Watching him make those decisions on his own was amazing!

As a dog owner, there's nothing better than feeling like you've done everything you can to keep your pup safe, and that's exactly how I left feeling. Living in Santa Clarita, where rattlesnakes are a real concern, this class gave me so much peace of mind.

More than anything, it's obvious that Scott genuinely cares about dogs and the people who love them. You can tell this isn't just a business to him. He truly wants to keep dogs safe.

If you have a dog and live anywhere rattlesnakes are around, take the class!! 💓"

Destiny Google Review
After-session summary
"We trained at Get Rattled up North, and this program is on a whole other level. Way better!"
Bethany Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"It's a really great thing to do for your dog."
Alyssa Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Glad we did this — I feel my dog is much safer now."
Stephanie Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"We're really happy with the results and feel so much better now that Gatsby is trained."
Stephanie Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Scott did great work with my dog. He's a German Shepherd, which he says is one of the breeds that catches on really quickly. Whiskey, our Shepherd, caught on fast and did a great job avoiding the snakes after some corrections. My husband and I are glad we did this."
Madison Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My dogs did great and this training was above and beyond. So glad we did it!"
Lizbeth Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Chewie and Leia did great! We were impressed with the training and had a lot of fun. We recommend this course!"
Joanna Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I'm so happy that I did this class. I'm moving to Texas and needed the best training available because it's total snake country where I'll be. I booked my mom a session right after finishing the course."
Hailey Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"One of my dogs has been bitten 6 times. I'm so happy that I found you guys. Thank you!"
Pam Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I am thrilled with the training! All 3 of my dogs have been bitten by rattlesnakes before, and now I can finally let them off the leash in their own backyard. I've used another trainer before, but I'll be using your rattlesnake school from now on. Last time she tried to charge me $1,000 to train one dog! I'm so happy to have found your school. Thank you!"
Cyd Walker Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Thank you so much for training my two dogs!"
Jackie Manager, Happy Pets Veterinary Center
After-session summary
"I had a fantastic experience with The Snake School for Dogs rattlesnake avoidance training. Scott was incredibly friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. He took the time to explain the training process and made sure I understood how the program works. I was really impressed that he used live rattlesnakes in a safe, controlled environment, along with rattlesnake scent and sound, to teach dogs to recognize and avoid the danger. It gave me confidence that my dog, Kalani, was getting realistic, effective training that could make a real difference. I highly recommend this training to anyone with a dog who hikes, camps, and lives in California — it's an invaluable investment in your dog's safety, and well worth it, because an emergency trip to the vet for a snake bite can cost upwards of $5,000!"
Giovanna Staff · Pet Hospital of Thousand Oaks
After-session summary
"My 22-pound Cockapoo has been bitten before and almost didn't make it. I live in the mountains of SCV, and I feel confident my dog is now best protected against rattlesnakes. You guys are great. Thank you so much for yesterday!"
Angie Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Thank you for working with me. I don't like snakes at all, so Scott took Ginger on the course while I relaxed at the table. Since Ginger's been bitten before, this was so important!"
Gladys Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"This was an excellent rattlesnake avoidance training session. I was very satisfied with the extra scent work they did, and I appreciated the muzzled gopher snake so my dog could safely walk right up to a snake on the ground. The other snake school did not train my dog like this — afterward it had walked right on top of a snake. Good job!"
Rao Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Thank you for working with Hank. He was naturally pretty avoidant of snakes, but needed the extra training to recognize the scent in case he can't see the snake or hear the rattle. He did very well, and we're confident."
Derek Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"You guys did a great job with Layla and Mia. My mom and dad had a lot of fun at the training as well. This was a great rattlesnake aversion training!"
Ariel & Family Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"We feel so much better after putting Finn through your training. Great!"
Jeffery Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Not only was this a great training, but Scott was great with the kids. They had so much fun and learned a lot about snakes — they even got to hold the harmless gopher snakes and wear them like a necklace. A great experience. And Ace is rattlesnake ready!"
Jenn Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Honestly, this was a great experience. I live in the mountains, up against a hill, and there are a lot of snakes. I'm very happy with the training — and with their offer for free refreshers in the same season. This is a great training program."
Dina Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Thanks for training my 3 dogs!"
Dustin Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Really great training! Was getting ready for hunting season with my 17 month old GSP and was worried about finding a place to do rattlesnake avoidance training before the season started. Found the Snake School and was able to schedule online for an 8am session on a Sunday. They treat their snakes with utmost respect and the dog handler was really kind and explained everything. I was able to walk through the whole course with them and by the end they had trained my Pup via sight, smell, and sound and he was avoiding the snakes on his own. These are great people and doing a great service for dog owners. If you haven't done this yet or need a refresher you should go here, it could save you a huge vet bill or even your dog's life!"
Patrick Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Marley did really well and learned to avoid the rattlesnakes!"
Scott B. Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My dog did really well and learned to avoid the snakes!"
Mary Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Torn did great. He needed extra work with the rattlesnake scent, but prevailed. Thanks guys!"
Jim Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My dog is so curious and has a very high drive. We actually reworked several of the stations until avoidance was completely proofed. My dog really did learn to avoid the rattlesnakes!"
Patti R. Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My Bernedoodle did well on some of the stations, but didn't quite perform how well the trainer would have liked him too. He was invited back for a follow up session at no cost, and we're looking forward to getting him back to finalize his training."
Jason Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I had a great time at the Snake School and Midge learned a lot! I feel much better bringing her in the field with me! She's been avoiding this hole in the yard that I found a snake skin inside!"
Michelle W. Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I'm going to be recommending my clients to the Snake School for rattlesnake avoidance training!"
Richard Professional Dog Trainer
After-session summary
"Bagel did great and learned to avoid the rattlesnakes. Thanks guys!"
Ian Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Arnie & Nala both needed this training very much and I'm very happy that we did it. I feel much safer about my dogs now!"
Mathew S. Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My Chihuahua, Leela, has a seizure condition so we couldn't use any e-collar on her. I was so worried about this because my dogs have encountered rattlesnakes at our house. My dog is already “leave it” trained. So I worked with the Snake School to come up with a custom training plan, that didn't include the e-collar. This is not their standard method, and they told me that it would not be as effective as their regular course which uses e-collars, but since there was no other choice and my dog needs at least some training in avoidance of rattlesnakes, we went ahead and did the course. By using strong “no” commands paired with timed positive reinforcement, my dog really did learn to avoid the rattlesnakes. She wanted nothing to do with the Snakes by the end of the course. Thank you so much."
Tina Snake School Graduate
"After finding a huge rattlesnake in my Hollywood Hills back yard, I knew it was time for this training for our pooch. Scott and his team take you and your dog, one on one, through a course of live snakes in cages that rattle like crazy, scent bags tucked in piles of rocks and wood piles, and recorded sounds. Rover is wearing a mild shock collar that is adjusted before hitting the course. Pup only gives a tiny jump — no yelping, no crying. When your dog seems interested in the 'Danger Noodle' they get the little shock; the next time they encounter one, they steer clear of it. Also with the sounds and smells, pup sniffs the bag of snake scent and gets a zap — the next time they encounter one, they move on. Scott was so gentle with our boy, and there's lots of treats and snuggles. I was more freaked out by the snakes than our dog was, to the point where I felt I should stand back and not make a sound so our dog could focus on the lesson. Archie passed with flying colors, and I hope he never has to use this training, but I'm glad it's in his head. Thanks Snake School, I have a little more sense of calm."
Sa Google Review
After-session summary
"Meesh, our Pit & GSP mix, was a rock star. Only about half of the time did he need corrections. He was naturally avoidant of the rattlesnakes at first, but eventually he'd get curious and needed correction. He especially needed extra help learning to avoid the isolated scent training — the trainer added extra scent training in our session to make sure Meesh learned that the scent was bad too. We are very happy that we did rattlesnake avoidance training for our pup. Thanks Snake School."
Ryan Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Thank you guys so much for training Peppermint & Barli!"
Katie & Cooper Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"My baby Dobbie is an 8-pound Chihuahua mix. I was worried about bringing him to training, being so small and 12 years old and all — but they have a special e-collar that works for dogs as small as 5 pounds, and he did really well. They mostly used positive praise for Dobbie, but he did need some corrections, and I thought it was really great to show him that snakes are bad!"
Esme Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"I'm really happy that I brought Dex to training. He did well and I'm proud of him. I'm going to bring him back in about a month for a complimentary follow-up course, just to double-check his lessons."
Ryan Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"We took our Golden Retriever, Cali, to training at the Snake School. We needed the extra peace of mind that our dog would avoid rattlesnakes should he ever cross paths with one. We are very happy that we did this. The team is professional, the training is thorough, and you can tell they really love the dogs they work with and treat their snakes with the utmost respect and consideration. Thank you so much, guys!"
Mark & Pam Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Really was impressed with how well you all handled the dogs. We will spread the word!"
Annie Chandra's Mom · Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"We just moved from the beach to Santa Clarita, and now that we know about the snake problem out here, we're glad that we did training with you guys."
Ken Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Jack did great and we are very happy that we did this."
Todd Jack's Dad · Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Sage did really well. I moved to California recently, onto a large property pushed up against the San Gabriel Mountains — we're seeing lots of snakes, so I'm so glad that I did this."
Katie Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Koba did really well. I'm feeling a lot better now that she knows to avoid them."
Karrie Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"We're happy that Chico is snake trained."
Lorelie & Kevin Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Curie did great in snake training and we're proud parents."
Craig Snake School Graduate
"Scott and his crew run a super professional business. We couldn't be happier with the entire experience, and our dogs had a great time also. We'll see you next year for a check up, Scott!"
Steve Google Review
After-session summary
"We think Rocco did really well and had a great experience at the Snake School."
Dayna Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Jax is a very sensitive dog, and he was treated very kindly in snake school. The trainers ended up altering the course for him, and Jax did well identifying the actual snakes and the sound. They recommended an on-the-house refresher to bolster his ability to sniff the snakes out — we're going to have them do this at our house!"
Jenniffer Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"We're getting our GSP and Weim ready for hunting season. Glad we got them trained, and we may come back next month for a complimentary refresher prior to our hunting trip!"
Kim & Spencer Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"As a veterinarian, it was a top priority to get my Chihuahua, Addie, snake trained — a dog this size may not survive a rattlesnake bite."
Tina Veterinarian · Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"By the time class was through, Daisy wanted nothing to do with the rattlesnakes."
Jonathan Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Lola did really well avoiding the rattlesnakes."
Nicole Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Maggie the Golden Retriever did great and learned a lot at rattlesnake avoidance training."
Wesley Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Ruger is good to go this year for rattlesnake season."
Tom Loy Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Had a great experience with Snake School driving up to our house in Arrowhead and training our dogs. We worked and reworked until we were sure that our dogs wanted nothing to do with snakes! So important, because we're seeing more than one rattlesnake on our walking trail every week. We'll see you guys next year!"
Harold Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Abby the Brittany is good to go for hunting this year."
Robert Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Great job guys. Thanks for driving out here to my house to do this. It's amazing that they learn this so quickly. Look how Cocoa avoids those snakes. Put me in your calendar for the same date and time next year."
Thad Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"This is a really cool business. Scott did a really good job of thinking this all up and creating this training. They were kind and gentle with my dog. They do a great job of teaching dogs to stay away from snakes. Thank you!"
Paula Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"They were great with my dog. She went from being curious and approaching the rattlesnakes to walking big wide loops around them, choosing to not go near the snakes. She could sniff them out, recognize them by sight, and by the sound of their rattle. This is a great training. I'm glad my friend recommended Snake School."
Chelsi Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"As a professional agility trainer, I was very impressed with their methods. We've done rattlesnake avoidance training before with our dogs — we've had to deal with snake bites before, and one of our dogs died from a bite, so we know exactly how important this training is. One of our dogs was trained by another program in May, but we were not confident at all after that training. At Snake School, they absolutely made sure that our dog learned to avoid the snakes — she can sniff them right out now, and turns and runs the other way. This was a great training. We're recommending that our peers from our dog groups all go to this training."
Dawn Snake School Graduate · Professional Agility Trainer
After-session summary
"Wolfie did really well at Snake School. From curious and with high prey drive, he was corrected — and quickly, Wolfie learned to make wide loops instead of approaching, and to dart past instead of stopping to investigate."
Halley Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Proud of my dog — he learned that snakes are bad."
Jose Snake School Graduate
After-session summary
"Thank you Scott, we enjoyed the training."
Will Snake School Graduate

Training options

Simple, transparent pricing.Rattlesnake training prices in Santa Clarita

26% off through Nov 21 · applied automatically at checkout

Single dog

$250$185

per dog · one 30-minute session

  • 30 minutes one-on-one — never a group
  • Full 12-station course: scent, sound & sight
  • Every rattlesnake caged, never muzzled
  • Free return all season
  • Graduation diploma
See open dates

Annual refresher

$175$129.50

per dog · Snake School graduates

  • A tune-up before each snake season
  • Scent, sound & sight re-proofed
  • Every rattlesnake caged, never muzzled
  • Recommended every year
See open dates

At your home

$900$650

from · 1 dog, plus travel

  • We bring the full 12-station course to you
  • Same caged rattlesnakes, same handlers
  • Your dog trains where it actually lives
  • More dogs welcome
See private pricing
$2,500+typical ER bill for one rattlesnake bite
$185to train your dog to stay away

Common questions

Rattlesnake avoidance training questions.

Aren’t rattlesnakes gone by fall and winter?

No. Rattlesnakes come out any time there are a few days above 70° — even in winter. They’re active through October, and newborn babies are out in the fall. Training now keeps your dog covered for the whole year.

How does rattlesnake avoidance training for dogs work?

Across 12 stations, your dog learns to recognize and avoid rattlesnakes by sight, sound, and scent. We use live rattlesnakes — always securely caged and out of reach — along with isolated rattle recordings and real rattlesnake scent. Corrections come from an e-collar at the exact moment, paired with positive reinforcement, so your dog builds an avoidance response that holds in the real world.

Is rattlesnake avoidance training safe for my dog?

Yes. Every rattlesnake stays securely caged and is never within reach of your dog. For the sight stations we use muzzled non-venomous gopher snakes, so your dog can safely walk right up to a snake on the ground. We have never had a bite in class.

Does the e-collar hurt my dog?

No — we never harm dogs with our e-collars. A brief, low-level stimulation is paired with the rattlesnake’s scent, sound and sight so your dog learns the snake means danger, and every time your dog moves away it gets praise and treats. We use the lowest effective level on one of three collar sizes, including one for dogs as small as 5 pounds.

Doesn’t the cage change the rattlesnake’s scent?

No — and your dog never learns the scent from a cage in the first place. Our scent stations have no cage at all: real rattlesnake scent, set between identical-looking blank stations (like three rocks in a row where only the middle one carries snake scent), so your dog learns to pick out the snake itself, not the setup. The live rattlesnakes come afterward — securely caged with full airflow — to prove the response.

How long does the training take?

Each dog gets about 30 minutes of focused one-on-one work on the course — most programs spend 5–10 — because we proof every station until the avoidance sticks, then finish with a graduation. Plan on 30–60 minutes at the ranch, depending on how many dogs you bring.

How long does rattlesnake avoidance training last?

Most dogs are snake-safe after a single session. We recommend an annual refresher before rattlesnake season each year, and if your dog needs more work you can come back free any time the same season.

Do you train puppies and small dogs?

Yes. We adapt the training to each dog, and use an e-collar designed for dogs as small as 5 pounds. Anxious, sensitive, and older dogs are welcome — the course is worked at their pace.

Where is the training held, and when?

On our permanent 20-acre training ranch in Santa Clarita (Bouquet Canyon), with weekend sessions nearly every week of the season. Private at-home sessions are also available across the Los Angeles area.

How much does rattlesnake avoidance training cost?

Training at the ranch is $250 for a single dog, or $200 per dog for multi-dog families, and an annual refresher is $175 — with our current 26% seasonal discount applied automatically at checkout, that’s $185, $148 and $129.50. A private session at your home is $500 plus $150 per dog and $2/mile travel. A single rattlesnake bite typically costs $2,500 or more at the vet.

The next rattlesnake your dog meets won’t be in a cage.

Thirty minutes now — and a quick refresher each year keeps your dog snake-safe.

Inside the box

✓ Not snake-safe after one session? Come back free all season.

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Questions? Text or call — we’re available 7 days a week.

The Snake School Training Ranch · 30035 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91350 · our permanent 20-acre course, by appointment only.

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Next class$250 $185/dog · ends Nov 21
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