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Amador Sees Increase In Rattlesnake Bites |
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Tuesday, 24 June 2008 |
 One of the many virtues of our foothill region is the fact that we share our environment with a multitude of different animal species. As the weather gets warmer, one of Amador County’s more infamous animal inhabitants becomes active: Rattle Snakes. A recent rash of rattlesnake bite victims at Sutter Amador Hospital demonstrates the importance of educating yourself on the characteristics of these snakes, and what to do if you are bitten. A rattlesnake can be relatively docile, or easily provoked. Common characteristics of mature rattlers are: a powerful body that can reach a length of 5.5 feet, a thin neck, a triangular or heart-shaped head, facial pits, hooded eyes with elliptical pupils, and a tail rattle. It is important to note that tail rattles, or buttons, can be lost or may not be present in very young snakes. Skin color may vary from dark gray, olive, or yellowish-brown to brown or black with hexagonal, oval, or nearly circular blotches with well defined light borders. Baby rattlesnakes are just as poisonous, and often more dangerous, than mature snakes. When threatened, the rattlesnake may coil, rattle, and raise its upper body. If surprised, it may lunge up to several feet, striking without warning. Not every strike delivers venom, but every rattlesnake bite needs medical attention. If you are bitten, you should seek professional medical attention immediately. Keep the bite marks below your heart and limit movement to keep heart rate reduced. Remove any rings, bracelets, boots, or other restricting items from the bitten extremity. Do not apply ice to the bite, attempt to suck out the venom, or give alcohol, foods, stimulants or pain medication unless specifically directed to do so by a physician. If safe to do so, try to get a good look at the snake, so a description can be given to medical professionals. Don’t risk getting bitten by trying to kill the snake. There is also now a rattlesnake vaccination available for dogs. For more information on this vaccination, contact your local veterinary clinic. For more information on rattlesnakes in California, visit the department of fish and game’s website at www.dfg.ca.gov.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 07 July 2008 )
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