14 – All About Pets Lethbridge Herald Rattlesnake Safety in Lethbridge & Area
Rattlesnakes are masters of camouflage. Make sure you remain alert and aware of your surroundings when hiking in the coulees, especially when you are in the natural areas of west Lethbridge. We recommend staying
on established trails. Your first indication of a nearby rattlesnake
may be the rasp of its rattle. This is the snake's way of getting your attention to warn you of its presence. That being said, rattlesnakes will not always alert people of their presence. Their first strategy is to rely on their camouflage. For this reason, residents need to maintain awareness while they're moving in and around the coulees. Do not step or jump over large rocks and
logs without checking to see what is on the other side. Rattlesnakes can feel the vibration of your footsteps through the ground.
•Keep your dog on a leash. A snake will likely defend itself by striking a dog that ignores the warning signs.
•If you are hiking in the coulees, always wear pants and sturdy footwear.
•Always pay attention to the ground in front of your feet. Be snake aware.
Back away slowly. Remain calm. Give the snake space. Rattlesnakes are not aggressive and given a
choice will retreat rather than strike. However, if surprised, stepped on or cornered, they can strike up to a distance about half of their length. People should never run when encountering a snake as there may be more than one in the immediate area. It is estimated that up to 20% of their bites
are dry (no venom is injected). Prairie rattlesnake venom is not particularly lethal and no one has died from a prairie rattlesnake bite in Alberta. Almost every year dogs are bitten by rattlesnakes in Lethbridge. They usually recover after several days of treatment with steroids and antibiotics.
For more information, visit
lethbridge.ca
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