Rattlesnake Vaccination
04/18/05

Here’s some information about the “new” rattlesnake vaccine that may answer some of your questions.

The vaccine has been used under a “provisional” license in California for two years and has very recently been given full FDA licensure. We have a small supply of the vaccine available now, as do a number of other veterinary clinics.

Vaccinated animals when bitten by a rattlesnake are still considered emergency situations and should be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. The product is labeled to prevent the “allergic” response to snakebite and does not claim to prevent other symptoms of snakebite, like tissue damage, swelling, pain, and cardiac effects. However, these symptoms will likely be reduced in vaccinated animals.

The vaccine is made from the venom of the Western Diamondback rattlesnake. Vaccinated animals bitten by other kinds of rattlesnakes and other pit vipers (cottonmouths and copperheads) may get some protection but no such claim is made by the manufacturer officially. Venom composition varies between snakes and therefore maximum benefit cannot be guaranteed with bites from anything but the Diamondback.

The immunity derived may not last a full year so the manufacturer recommends vaccinations be given one month prior to the “snake season”, (vaccinate in early spring). Twice annual vaccination is recommended for animals with year round exposure.

Most vaccines use an “adjuvant” to stimulate immune response to vaccination and boost protection. The adjuvant used here is aluminum hydroxide which is an old, non water soluble adjuvant that most vaccine manufacturers have abandoned.

At DS Animal Hospital we try to design vaccination protocols based on individual exposure potential and the characteristics of specific vaccines. We therefore recommend rattlesnake vaccine for those animals whose expose to poisonous snakes is highest, like working bird dogs or stock dogs who work in known snake infested areas. In our humble opinion, this vaccine is not appropriate for wide use in pet animals. Please call us with any questions you may still have; we hope this quick summary helps.