03/23/2026
Spring in Texas = Rattlesnake Season
In South Texas, snakes begin emerging as early as February and March as temperatures rise. After a winter dormancy period, they become more active in search of food, warmth, and mates.
Rattlesnakes—especially the Western diamondback —are one of the most frequently encountered venomous snakes in San Antonio.
While snakes generally avoid humans, encounters increase in spring simply because both people and pets are outside more.
This is the time of year when emergency cases start increasing.
Most dogs aren’t bitten because they’re aggressive—they’re bitten because they’re curious.
Be careful of:
-Nose down in tall grass.
-Sniffing a rock or brush pile.
-Investigating a strange sound.
In just seconds, curiosity can turn into a life-threatening emergency.
Biggest risks right now:
-Tall grass and trails
-Rock piles or wood piles
-Early morning and evening walks
-Off-leash exploring
-Snakes are often more active in the evening and early morning.
How to protect your dog:
-Keep your dog on a leash in higher-risk areas
-Avoid letting them sniff blindly into brush or tall grass
-Keep your yard trimmed and clear
-Stay alert on walks, especially this time of year
-Consider aversion training with a professional trainer- your dog can be taught to leave snakes alone
What to do if your dog is bitten:
A rattlesnake bite is always an emergency.
Watch for:
-Sudden swelling (especially around the face or legs)
-Pain or limping
-Puncture wounds (two marks, but they may be hard to see if swelling or matted fur is present)
Act immediately:
Go to an emergency veterinarian right away
Call ahead if possible to confirm antivenom availability
Do not wait—rattlesnake bites can be fatal without prompt treatment
Antivenom is most effective within 3–4 hours of the bite
Keep your dog calm and as still as possible to slow venom spread
There are no safe home remedies for snake bites.
About the rattlesnake vaccine:
Recent studies suggest the rattlesnake vaccine is not as effective as once thought, and many veterinarians no longer recommend it. Even if your dog has received the vaccine, urgent medical care is still necessary after a bite.
Let’s hear from you!
What’s the weirdest thing your dog has ever found or tried to sniff while outside?
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