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Timber rattlesnakes and horses.?
I know they can be lethal to humans if the bite is left untreated, but what are the risks to horses? I worry as we have them where I ride. Encounters are rare, but hey, it can happen.
@ Snezzy. I have had rattlesnake and it is quite delicious, but here in Indiana, they are a protective species. They frown on carrying firearms in the state park where I often ride. I have only seen maybe a total of 4 in 20 years, but have heard sightings are increasing.
4 Answers
- Ice CatLv 58 years agoFavourite answer
Yes, snake bites can kill horses, and if not, cause a HUGE amount of pain and suffering and very long recovery period.
Unless you are used to shooting from the top of your horse and your horse is used to a gun going off near his head, do NOT try this. You might be throw into the snake.
Some horses can smell snakes as they reek of dead rotting meat and will avoid them. Others don't notice them and get bit.
Always best to ride on a trail of some sort where you can see a short ways ahead of you. In cold weather snakes are out during the day, and during the very hot times they come out at night. I know people like to go on moonlight rides in the heat, but where I live that would not be a good idea. At least IMHO ...
I live near Phoenix and you might want to watch this video ... this horse recovered due to a LOT of pains-taking work on the owners part and a very good vet near her.
Source(s): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqSpXupt_ME - CDogLv 78 years ago
A bite to the leg can cause tissue damage and infection if not cleaned promptly. The biggest danger is the horse being bit in the face. This happened to my sister's horse. Her nose was very swollen for a long time and the holes were visible for months. The bite can cause the nostrils to swell shut. This did not happen in my sister's horse's case. A vet speaking to our riding club recommended using two ten inch lengths of hose to insert into the nostrils to keep them open. I ride in rattlesnake country too. In fact, once my horse stepped right over a small one. I think in most cases they feel the vibration of the horse coming and get out of the way.
- partly cloudyLv 78 years ago
I'm sure, if your horse got bit by a rattler You would have it treated, Horace. My brother operates a snake removal service, and from what I understand (for humans) there is an anti-venom. I'd check with my vet, if I were you, to see if he carries it, or contact animal rescue in Texas and see what they say.
- SnezzyLv 78 years ago
Never had any encounters. Usual remedy is to carry a sidearm and be a good shot. I've heard stories of horses stomping them. I've also heard they are good eatin'. Don't know. Never tried.
