When we think of snakes in North America, we think of scary rattlesnakes attacking cowboys and backpackers in isolated locations. They then have to rely on tourniquets and other questionable first aid to save themselves from the poison.

Dogs with solid noses and insatiable curiosity are among the most common causes of snake encounters and bites, especially in situations where their owners would prefer to avoid them. On the other hand, Snakes are far more scared of us than we are of them. Even if your dog encounters a snake, the snake is more likely to flee than to exacerbate the situation.

If you're walking your dog in snake territory, there are a few basic steps on how to train dog to avoid snakes more smoothly and ensure that you and your dog both emerge whole and undamaged.

Be Conscious

When you're out in nature, you should always be awake and aware of your surroundings. Never assume that snakes aren't present even in the dead of winter. Keep an eye on where you put your hands and feet. Examine nooks and crannies before putting your hands or feet in them if you're climbing. Keep an ear out for the ominous sound of a rattle as you scan the path around you.

In High-Risk Situations, Be Extra Careful

 Knowing which locations are more likely to harbor snakes and where to look for them is critical for avoiding an undesired or unexpected encounter. Snakes like to hide in tall grass and dense bushes, but you're more likely to observe them lounging on elevated, sun-drenched rocks ahead of time. Snakes are also likely found in fallen trees, overgrown riverbanks or lakeshores, and fissures in rocks. 

The danger is considerably more incredible at night when visibility is reduced, especially since some venomous snakes are active at night. Snake activity is also higher approximately a week following heavy rains, so exercising extra caution during that time will help keep your dog safe from unwanted interactions.

 Although the prospect of a snakebite or snake encounter is frightening, especially with your dog in tow, it should not deter you from enjoying the great outdoors with your dog. You and your dog should be ready to go out and experience everything the big, wide world has to offer, snakes and all, with just a few easy safety precautions.

Get to Better Understanding

Snakes might be challenging to recognize if you don't deal with them regularly. Rattlesnakes are the most common venomous snake in the United States, with rattles, triangular heads, heat-sensing pits or holes on the sides of their heads, and elliptical-shaped eyes.

Unlike a cat, venomous snakes have elliptical-shaped eyes, whereas non-venomous snakes have round pupils. Visit local zoos or parks where you can safely examine snakes and discover distinctions between species to familiarize yourself with these unique qualities. Get a field guide and bring it along on your hike. If you're unsure what kind of snake you're looking at, assume it's dangerous and keep your distance.

Training dogs to avoid snakes

Because of their innate curiosity, dogs are just as vulnerable to snake bites as humans. When it comes to teaching your dog snake aversion skills, you have a few possibilities. You can train your dog to "leave it" at home. Train your dog to "leave it" by giving him food or a toy (such as a rubber snake). Reward him with a treat when he disengages from the temptation and redirects his attention to you. Tie a fishing line to the end of the snake and have a friend pull it around to practice the same command after he's learned it.

Several organizations and trainers can teach your dog to recognize venomous snakes and avoid them.

Be astute.

If you come across a snake on the trail, the most significant thing you can do is give it lots of room. It is practically impossible to be bitten if you keep a gap of six feet or more between yourself and the snake. If you're out with your dog, keep him away from the snake and avoid interacting with it. Snakes should be recognized and avoided by your dog.

 Prepare for the Worst-Case Scenario

A poisonous snake bite is relatively rare, yet it can be hazardous. In the uncommon event that you are bitten, the best course of action is to seek medical attention right away. If your pet is bitten, the scenario is essentially the same—carry them out or ask for assistance and get them to the vet as soon as possible.

While you wait for aid, keep calm, remove any jewelry or constrictive clothes before you swell, clean the wound and cover it with a clean, dry dressing, and arrange yourself so that the bite location is below your heart. It's crucial to remember not to use a tourniquet or ice, try to remove the venom with your hands, or eat caffeine or alcohol. If you frequently visit a location, it's a good idea to have the phone numbers for local law enforcement agencies, such as forestry, park services, and the fire department, on hand.

Any bites, especially poisonous ones, should be treated by your veterinarian.

 Almost every regularly prescribed treatment for a venomous snake bite is ineffective, if not harmful. Do not try to suck the poison out of the wound or tourniquet the bitten limb to stop the venom from spreading. Elevate your dog's chest and heart above the cut if possible, but the most important thing is to get him to the vet as soon as possible. Even venomous bites are unlikely to kill your dog in North America if they are treated quickly. If you know or suspect the bite isn't venomous, you can wash it out with water or a saline solution. However, you should still contact your veterinarian because even non-venomous snake bites can result in infections or other consequences.

What Should You Do If You Have Snakes in Your Yard?

Let's say you have snakes in your backyard where your dog enjoys playing. So, what's next? The creatures should be ignored for the most part. If you live in a region where deadly snakes are frequent, though, she suggests consulting a dog trainer who specializes in snake aversion training. Said, snake aversion training educates your dog to flee if he comes upon a snake.

 Make your yard as unpleasant to snakes as possible to dissuade them from visiting. Here's what she recommends: Maintain a regular lawn mowing schedule. Grass should not exceed four inches in height. Remove all debris from the area, including flagstones, planks, and firewood heaps. Bushes should be cut to one foot or higher in size so that nothing can hide beneath them.

 You should be able to see your entire yard in general. Snakes will not live in your yard if you can see every inch of it. They will not remain in an area where they are unable to conceal.

Snakes Aren't Deserving of Their Bad Reputation.

 Many individuals are afraid of snakes, yet these anxieties are frequently unwarranted. In my opinion, people make a huge deal out of snakes and their risks. They're nothing more than wild beasts. They are terrified of you. They are frightened of your dog. She emphasizes that most snakes will not attack you or your dog unless provoked.