PHOENIX — Warm weather means it's snake season in the Valley of the Sun.
One woman living in Rio Verde Foothills experienced that firsthand as she woke up to a terrifying sound coming from her yard. She ran out to find her dogs barking at a massive rattler.
The snake struck one of her dogs twice in the head and it was all caught on video by her surveillance cameras.
After multiple trips to the vet and the emergency room, her 6-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier will make a full recovery. However, experts are using this example as a time to remind pet owners to be aware of their surroundings.
Rattlesnake venom causes changes in blood cells which prevents the blood from clotting. This can lead to internal bleeding, in addition to heart, respiratory and kidney failure.
During the first 36 hours after the woman's dog was bit, the swelling from tissue damage compromised his breathing.
Reactions to the bite will differ based on where the animal was bitten and the age of the snake. Juvenile rattlesnakes actually release more venom than adults. In addition, wounds closer to the head or vital organs can be more dangerous than injuries to the legs and tail.
The Arizona Poison Center reports more than 200 rattlesnake bites are reported annually. However, not all animals bitten will seek care. Experts say the actual number of bites is closer to 350 every year.
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