Best way to keep them out of rattlers?

[Hornseeker]

I'm getting a pup here pretty soon (springer)... and will be spending a fair bit of time chasing huns and sharpies in snake country. In the past I simply relied on the great control I had of my dogs. If I saw them notice a snake I would simply tell them to "get out of it" and they'd stay away... it was simple obedience.

Is that my best bet or is there some things I can do to go a step further?

Thanks!

[vandeman17]

I am worried about the same thing with my dog so I talked to my vet as well as my cousin who trains dog. The vet said that they have rattler vaccines that you can give your dog that help alot in case they get bit. My cousin said it wouldn't hurt at all because most the time a dog gets bit, you won't know because you didn't see it happen. The vaccine will help keep them healthy enough to get you into the vet for treatment. 

[boneaddict]

Get a pissed off bullsnake and put the pup in with it.   They probably will not be curious of another snake again unless they think their master is in for it, otherwise they will steer clear. 

[Bluemoon]

Hi Hornseeker
There is now (been out for about 6 years) a snake vaccine you may give your dogs..It consists of two series a month apart in the beginning then just a yearly booster.  IMO it is very inexpensive running where I live $22.00 a dose.  This is what I use on my dogs... I personally would stay away from the "snake breaking clinics"  I have been to many and they are just flat out dog abuse once again IMO..
When it comes to someone using an E collar on my dog I would have a problem...Using the collar is like many of the long range shooters on this site....Yes a gun and scope can shoot 1000 plus meters and anyone can go out and buy one... however,  there are only 5% of the shooters that can make those shots with confidence.... The same is with E collars anyone can go buy one but that does not make them a trainer..... 

   

[wsucowboy]

Get a pissed off bullsnake and put the pup in with it.   They probably will not be curious of another snake again unless they think their master is in for it, otherwise they will steer clear. 

[Hornseeker]

That bull snake method doesn't sound bad. I will talk to my vet about the vaccine, it really sounds like the way to go also.

None of the country I hunt is "loaded" with rattlers, but it wouldnt surprise me a bit to run into a snake every time I go out... if we are covering some ground...

Thanks all, appreciate the input.