Emergency Response

Rattlesnake Bite Emergency Guide —
If You or Your Dog Gets Bitten at Home

Rattlesnake bites are a medical emergency. The wrong response can make things significantly worse. Know what to do — and what not to do — before you're ever in this situation.

For Humans
Human Rattlesnake Bite
Do This
  • →Call 911 or Poison Control immediately
  • →Stay calm and minimize movement — slows venom spread
  • →Remove rings, watches, and tight clothing before swelling starts
  • →Keep the bite elevated above heart level while heading to the ER
  • →Mark the edge of swelling with time & date to track progression
  • →Get to an emergency room — antivenom is the only effective treatment
Do NOT Do This
  • ✕Cut the wound or suck out venom — ineffective, causes tissue damage
  • ✕Apply a tourniquet or constricting band — can lead to amputation
  • ✕Apply ice — does not treat envenomation, risks frostbite
  • ✕Take aspirin, ibuprofen, or alcohol — all increase bleeding risk
  • ✕Try to catch or kill the snake — risk of second bite
For Dogs
Dog Rattlesnake Bite
Do This
  • →Get to a veterinary emergency room immediately — antivenom works best within 4 hours
  • →Carry your dog — do not let them walk, exertion spreads venom faster
  • →Keep the bite area below heart level — opposite of human protocol
  • →Call ahead to confirm the vet has antivenom in stock
  • →Remove collar or harness near the bite site before swelling starts
  • →Keep your dog calm and warm during transport — minimize stress
Do NOT Do This
  • ✕Elevate the bite above the heart — unlike humans, this accelerates venom to vital organs
  • ✕Apply ice, cut the wound, or suck out venom — all ineffective and harmful
  • ✕Give any pain medication — let the veterinarian manage pain
  • ✕Use a tourniquet or constricting band
  • ✕Rely on the rattlesnake vaccine alone — still requires full emergency vet care
Poison Control — 24/7, Free, Confidential
1-800-222-1222
The best thing you can do after a bite is call Poison Control while someone drives you to the ER. They'll guide you in real time and alert the receiving hospital.
Home Protection

Keep Rattlesnakes Out of Your Yard

Snake fencing is the only method with documented effectiveness. Everything else is folklore.

Keeping Rattlesnakes Away →
Quick Reference

If Your Dog Is Bitten Right Now

Open the emergency popup for a quick step-by-step guide you can reference on the spot.