Rattle Snake Vaccine!

Recently, a new vaccine has come on the market with the intention of protecting your dog from rattlesnake venom.  This vaccine has caused quite a stir both in the veterinary community and in the media.  Many of our clients have seen the articles printed in the newspapers, and many have even researched the subject themselves.  But, what are the facts?  Does the vaccine really work?  Is it safe to give?  What kind of studies have been conducted to answer these questions? 

Red Rock Biologics is the company that developed the Rattlesnake Vaccine, but to date has not developed any other vaccine or pharmacuetical of any kind.  According to Red Rock, the vaccine reduces "the overall effects of snakebite" and can reduce or in some cases eliminate the need for antivenom.  Theoretically, the idea behind the vaccine is that enough antibiodies are already circulating in a vaccinated dogs body.  When bitten by a rattlesnake, these circulating protective antibiodies start neutralizing the venom immediately.  According to Red Rock,"The antibody levels in recently vaccinated dogs are comparable to treatment with three vials of antivenom."  Therefore, vaccinated dogs should have a lowered risk of permanent injury and should experience less pain and discomfort.  As of yet, there have not been any objective studies conducted to prove the efficacy of this vaccine.

Why aren't the doctors at Pantano Animal Clinic recommending and administering this vaccine?  Simple, there is no concrete information out there that says the vaccine actually works.  UC Davis College of Veterinary Medicine has stated on their website that, "Currently, we are unable to recommend this vaccine because of insufficient information regarding the efficacy of the vaccine in dogs."  There is one thing that everyone seems to agree on, however.  Owners of vaccinated dogs must still seek IMMEDIATE veterinary attention in the event their dog is bitten.  Even Red Rock Biologics states this on their website.  Vaccinated dogs must still recieve veterinary care for the following reasons:

   1)  The type of snake is often unknown.  There are well over 15 differing species of rattlesnakes in America and each one has a slightly different venom that affects the body in slightly different ways.  How can one vaccine protect against 15 plus venoms.

2)  Antibody titers may be overwhelmed in the face of severe envenomation.  Antibody titers are the level of antibodies currently circulating througout the body.  If enough venom is injected during a bite, the level of antibodies may not be enough to neutralize the venom effectively.

3) An individual dog may lack sufficient protection depending on its response to the vaccine and depending on the time that has elapsed since the vaccine.  Just like people, dogs can react differently to vaccines or medications.  Therefore, it is possible that a vaccinated dog may not have developed a sufficient level of antibiodies to be protected.  Similarly, antibody levels decrease overtime.  If enough time has elapsed between the vaccine and a bite, the antibody level may not be high enough to be protective. 

SUMMARY:

In summary, while vaccinating your dog might reduce the effects of the venom, the vaccine does not eliminate the need for immediate and intensive veterinary care.    We at Pantano Animal Clinic promise to stay current on the rattlesnake vaccine controversy, and at such time that scientific studies prove it to be effective, we will consider carrying it . 

If you have any questions not answered here, please feel free to contact us at Pantano Animal Clinic, or visit the following websites:

UC Davis Canine and Feline Vaccination Guidelines

Red Rock Biologics