28/05/2023
Rattlesnake Bite Treatment facts:
Last year Fairfield saw 14 patients from May-September with Rattlesnake bites which required antivenin treatment.
By end of June last year, Fairfield had treated 3 patients for rattlesnake bites. So far in 2023 we have already treated 4 pets for rattlesnake bites, and it’s not quite June yet. Two of this year’s cases were from Kalamalka Lake Park in Vernon, one was from Wildhorse Canyon in Okanagan Mountain Park, and one was from Okanagan Falls.
Last year, 60% of cases were seen in August and September. In contrast, in 2021 we saw a similar number of cases, but 80% of them were in May and June.
Each year is different, but we are always prepared. While Fairfield does have a limited supply of antivenin, this is because we are only able to order a set amount at a time due to strict import regulations. We always plan ahead and do not anticipate running out.
If your pet is bitten by a rattlesnake, return to your vehicle, call us, and proceed to Fairfield calmly and safely. The rattlesnakes in the Okanagan are different from those in California, Arizona, and Colorado. Their venom is not nearly as toxic, and their bites are treated effectively with antivenin.
Fun fact: the antivenin we use neutralizes the effects of venom of all North American pit vipers including: cottonmouths, water moccasins, copperheads, AND rattlesnakes.