Re: [PyrNet-L] Rattlesnakes

[Pyrstaf@aol.com]

Doug,
I don't think you have to worry about them out there . . . but you might 
check around with the local vet or university just in case.

During the rainy monsoon season, they show up in river beds, shallow pools of 
water, gardens, etc.

They excrete a chemical from their backs that is very poisonous.  If a dog 
licks the toad (typical if they find it) the reaction can be anything from 
vomitting to death.

It all depends on just how allergic the dog is to the poison.  It usually 
causes the dogs throat to swell causing them to suffocate.  If a dog does get 
a hold of one, the first thing to do is get a water hose and rinse the mouth 
cavity out with water.  Trying at the same time not to drown the dog.  Then 
get it to a vet immediately.

Again, I don't believe that they are in your area . . . but it doesn't hurt 
to be safe.

Take Care,
John Steaveson
Framboise Great Pyrenees