Tara,
Thanks again. No, your post did not upset me. I understand and deeply appreciate your concern. I feel the same way about getting all of the knowledge that we have out to people who need help. So thank you, thank you, thank you! Actually, the website that I looked at about the vaccines did say that it was only available in California. Apparently it is not up to date, because about 2 months ago when I visited my regular vet I noticed the poster up advertising the vaccine. I did not ask about it at that time. Last night however, the vet that I went to also had the poster up right by the check in counter and I did ask about it before I left. They have it and have been administering it. In fact the vet tech that assisted the vet told me that she had her poodle vaccinated because she likes to roam and does not come back when she is called. So it is indeed available. It must be fairly new to Texas though because these are the only 2 places (besides the net) that I have ever heard of it. It is also relatively cheap. One of the vets charges 20.00 per vaccine and the other charges 25.00. As with all vaccines there are rare instances that harmful side effects including death may occur. However, we must remember that it's rare as is the case with any vaccine both human and animal. I just feel that after this experience that anyone who lives in an area w/ high rattlesnake populations, such as rural Texas areas, should educate themselves about the options such as this vaccine. Especially if their pets are not under constant supervision. It could mean the difference between life and death. Tara, thanks again for your insight. I do appreciate any and all useful information.
