This week alone, I’ve had three patients tell me they’ve seen rattlesnakes—either in their yard or out on a trail.
With the warmer weather here in the desert, snakes are becoming more active… which means the chances of running into one just went up—especially around Black Mountain, Spur Cross, and even right here in Cave Creek and Carefree neighborhoods.
So what should you do if you come across a rattlesnake?
First—give it space.
Stay at least 6 feet away (more if possible). Rattlesnakes can strike about half their body length, and it happens fast.
If you see one:
- Stop and stay calm
- Slowly back away—don’t make sudden movements
- Never try to touch, move, or kill it
- Keep kids and pets well clear
Here’s something important:
Most bites don’t happen out on the open trail—they happen when people accidentally reach into places they can’t see.
The cases I’ve personally heard about?
Reaching behind or underneath bushes, rocks, or wood piles.
A good rule:
If you can’t see it—don’t reach into it.
In the rare event of a bite:
- Stay as calm as possible (this helps slow the spread of venom)
- Call 911 or get to the ER immediately
- Keep the affected limb still and at heart level
- Remove tight items like rings or watches (swelling can happen quickly)
Avoid:
- Ice
- Tourniquets
- Cutting the wound or trying to “suck out” venom
For more detailed guidance, you can review this from the CDC:
👉 https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/snakes/symptoms.html
Quick medical care makes a big difference, and most people recover well when treated promptly.
A quick perspective shift…
As dangerous as they can be, rattlesnakes actually play a huge role in keeping our environment balanced.
They help control rodent populations (think mice and rats), which:
- Protects crops and vegetation
- Reduces the spread of certain diseases
- Keeps the food chain in check
Without snakes, we’d see a major spike in pests and a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem.
So while we definitely don’t want to get too close… they’re doing important work out there.
Have a great afternoon,
Joy, Jen, Kim, Kathy, Coloradas, Maxfield, Dr Shriner and Dr Ring
PS: Our office opens at 8am on Monday. We'll be ready to help with your neck and back pain. Call us at 480-488-1282 to make an appointment or walk in.
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