Conversation helps most dogs to relax.

Once Your Dog Has Settled Down

The training collar is fitted (similar to a TENS unit technology used by chiropractors). This collar causes a split-second muscle spasm at the vagus nerve in the neck. Although it may seem like a "shock," it is not a shock collar. After fitting, we test it on low settings to find the minimum reaction threshold and then add 40% more energy to simulate the sensation caused by rattlesnake venom. Rattlesnake bites cause no initial pain until the venom spreads through the bloodstream 5 to 10 minutes later, which is why a dog rarely learns from a bite. After healing, without training, most dogs will get bitten again because they have never associated the pain with a rattlesnake.

Rattlesnake Scent Training

This is achieved using the most natural fresh rattlesnake scent possible from the scent glands of a live adult rattlesnake. Since I do not 'muzzle' my snakes there is no scent of medical tape to confuse the scent glands of your dog.  Many vets who train dogs DO NOT muzzle as it is 100% more humane and less stressful to the snakes!

• Mojave Rattlesnake

This is a crucial part of the class because most dogs have never seen a rattlesnake up close. The encounter is safe, as the rattlesnake is hidden behind a fine mesh galvanized metal screen to protect both the dog and the snake. Mojave rattlesnakes are common, defensive, and animated in the high desert. The pet rattlesnake, named 'Hollywood', is not fond of dogs or humans and will raise up and rattle defensively. The metal screen keeps the fangs on his side. We observe your dog's initial reaction closely. If your dog approaches within striking range, an instant correction is made after allowing a few seconds for a good look and sniff. Smart dogs will avoid getting within 20 feet of the snake after this correction.

• Speckled Rattlesnake

This Speckled Rattlesnake, named 'CB', is my personal pet. He ignores dogs and humans and is 100% non-reactive to movement. He appears to be a prey creature that dogs can play with. Your dog will be led to the scent glands at the tail end of this rattlesnake, but after the Mojave encounter, most smart dogs will avoid him. However, some dogs may still be curious enough to sniff.

Final Introductions

The last snakes introduced are my 3-year-old, 18-inch baby speckled rattlesnake named 'Apricot' and or one other adolescent rattlesnake. 

Summary of Training Hurdles

There are three main hurdles in the training:

• Face-to-face with an animated 4 ft Mojave rattlesnake

• Nose-to-tail scent training with a 40-inch Speckled Rattlesnake

• Sight and scent training with juvenile rattlesnakes

Introducing Your Dog to Sidewinders

For clients in areas like 29 Palms to Wonder Valley with high concentrations of Sidewinders, we will introduce your dog to one. Sidewinders are unique rattlesnakes characterized by:

• Unique movement: They move sideways, a behavior defined by herpetologists as side-winding.