How does Rattlesnake Avoidance Training Work?

Dog Trainer Cindy Smullen of the German Shorthaired Pointer Club of Reno handles "King" while John Potash of Wildlife Rescue looks after the rattlesnake.

Every effort is made to teach your dog to avoid the sight, smell and sound of a rattlesnake. This is done by using live rattlesnakes that are loose on the ground but controlled by a licensed snake handler from Wildlife Rescue. John Potash, director of the Wildlife Rescue, has more than 15 years experience working with snakes and has handled thousands of venomous snakes, without being bitten.

The avoidance behavior is taught by putting a remote controlled electronic collar on the dog. When the dog’s attention is on the snake (i.e., one of the senses is directed to the snake), an unpleasant stimulation is applied to the dog. The stimulation is similar to static electricity. The session takes about 10 minutes on the average depending on the dog. Most dogs learn to avoid the snakes quickly.

Experienced dog trainers will work with your dog one on one and be able to focus on your dog’s reactions and body language.

The trainers are all AKC judges with combined dog training experience of more than 45 years.

Planning for the training:

  • Because the training area will visited by many dogs throughout the day, we recommend that you make sure that your dog’s vaccines are current. If you are unsure of which vaccines your dog needs, check with your veterinarian.
  • Make sure that your dog is well socialized and in good health.
  • Dogs must be at least six months old and weigh more than 15 pounds.

    Cost:

    Rattlesnake avoidance training is offered for a recommended, tax-deductible donation of up to $50 per dogs. Rates vary depending on the number of dogs per family and prior rattlesnake training by this organization.

    All proceeds help conserve wildlife habitat and provide dog training education in Nevada. Rattlesnake avoidance training is sponsored jointly by the Nevada Wildlife Federation, a non-profit organization, and The German Shorthaired Pointer Club of Reno.

    How do I register?
    Back to Nevada Wildlife Federation homepage