QUICK SUMMARY
A Chihuahua named Murphy was hospitalized after being bitten by a rattlesnake in Gilbert, Arizona. The 12-year-old dog received antivenom treatment and was discharged the next day. Veterinarians warn that dogs are at high risk for snake bites due to their curious nature, emphasizing the need for immediate medical attention.
A rattlesnake bite sent Murphy, a 12-year-old Chihuahua, to the Arizona Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Center in Gilbert after he was bitten in his Gold Canyon backyard. His owner noticed swelling on the right side of his face, prompting a visit to the hospital where Murphy received antivenom and was discharged the next day. Dr. Coyne Hopey highlighted the risks dogs face due to their curious nature, emphasizing that immediate medical attention can be life-saving. Pet owners should keep dogs on short leashes in areas where rattlesnakes are common and avoid dense brush and rocky terrains altogether. Signs of a rattlesnake bite can include swelling, restlessness, and difficulty breathing. A recent increase in rattlesnake bites in Arizona, with 182 reported cases in 2024, underscores the importance of awareness and preparedness. In a related incident, a toddler in Florence suffered severe injuries from a rattlesnake bite, requiring extensive medical intervention. The hospital urges pet owners to act swiftly if a snake bite occurs to mitigate potential complications.