Dog Rattlesnake Avoidance Training

04/22/2026

https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1437216298441529&id=100064595175725&post_id=100064595175725_1437216298441529&mibextid=Nif5oz

The recent report from Northern California is a heavyhearted reminder of the importance of snake safety. We are saddened to share news of the passing of an individual in Redwood Valley following a snakebite encounter—marking the third tragic fatality in California this year.

While fatal snakebites are statistically rare, unseasonably warm weather has led to a significant increase in snake activity across the state. As these vital members of our ecosystem emerge earlier than usual, the risk of accidental encounters increases for hikers, bikers, and homeowners alike.

At Save The Snakes, our mission is to foster respect and understanding to prevent such tragedies. We urge everyone to remain vigilant: stay on marked paths, wear protective footwear if in tall grass, and always give snakes the space they need. Coexistence is possible through education and awareness.

Our thoughts are with the families affected by these recent losses. Please take a moment to review our safety and coexistence resources:

➡️ www.savethesnakes.org/coexist

04/22/2026

https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1437216298441529&id=100064595175725&post_id=100064595175725_1437216298441529&mibextid=Nif5oz

04/10/2026

WOW! ...SO cool!

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1418202517017478&id=100064832282767&mibextid=Nif5oz 🌟💫🎉👏😊

03/31/2026

https://www.facebook.com/100064419860889/posts/1377511714406144/?mibextid=Nif5oz

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSsssssssssssssssssssssss!

It’s Rattlesnake Season! 🐍

And they’re out early this year. Many types of snakes are active, but it’s the rattlesnake—the venomous one—you want to be especially aware of.

First… don’t freak out! The more you know, the more confidently (and safely) you can enjoy the trails.

How to Tell the Difference: Gopher Snake vs. Rattlesnake (See comparison photo)

• Tail:
Rattlesnakes have a distinctive rattle at the end of their tail. Gopher snakes do not.
• Head Shape:
Rattlesnakes have a broad, triangular head with a wider jaw.
Gopher snakes have a narrower, more streamlined head—almost bullet-shaped.
• Body:
Rattlesnakes tend to be thicker and heavier-bodied. Gopher snakes are usually longer and more slender.

Trail Awareness Tips

• If possible, stay centered on the trail
• Give any snake plenty of space—most bites happen when people get too close.

🐾 Pet Message for Hikers
• In many areas of the Santa Monica Mountains where dogs are allowed, they are required to be on a leash—and this is especially important during rattlesnake season.
• Dogs are naturally curious and love to sniff everything. Unfortunately, the most common place for a dog to be bitten is the face/muzzle.
• Keeping your dog leashed helps protect them from a dangerous (and potentially life-threatening) encounter.

• REMEMBER - Rattlesnakes play an important role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem and are part of the incredible biodiversity of our trails. Respect them, give them space, and we can all safely coexist.

Happy Hiking! 🌿🥾

03/30/2026

If your dog gets bit (or another medical issue), this is a great way to pack them out

https://www.facebook.com/100061258164248/posts/1453751466676778/?mibextid=Nif5oz

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