Three reported rattlesnake bites involving dogs at a popular Westminster open space put Colorado pet owners on alert when summer recreation overlapped with peak snake activity, according to The Denver Post.
Here's what to know
According to city spokesperson Sara Stiehl, park rangers learned from another trail user that three dogs had been bitten by rattlesnakes at Westminster Hills Open Space. No staff members were called to respond directly to the incidents, per Stiehl.
For dog owners in the north metro, Westminster Hills is a frequent destination because it includes a 470-acre off-leash natural area, officials explained. The area also supports wildlife, including rattlesnakes and a pair of burrowing owls spotted nesting.
Stiehl noted that the reports fit a common summer pattern.
"In general, rattlesnake activity is very common at WHOS and around Westminster," Stiehl explained. "There's always an increase in rattlesnake sightings in the summer months."
A dog can move well ahead of its owner, sniff through grass or brush, and come across a defensive snake before anyone can react.
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More background
Across much of Colorado outside the high mountains, rattlesnakes are common and live in nearly every habitat, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
City officials said that they are most active in the mornings and evenings and also bask on pavement and trails.
They advised visitors to stay alert and turn off music, since you may hear a rattlesnake's warning before you see the animal.
Westminster has also warned residents about a bullsnake near Big Dry Creek by City Park that is often mistaken for a rattler.
What can be done?
Officials said staying on trails and in short grass is one of the easiest ways to reduce the chances of a snake encounter, especially in off-leash areas where dogs may roam ahead.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommended calling 911 immediately if a person is bitten and contacting an emergency veterinarian right away if a pet is bitten. Even when bites are not fatal, they can still cause severe pain and require urgent treatment.
Because some bites are never reported to dispatchers, rangers, or animal control, Stiehl acknowledged that official counts may not reflect the full number of incidents.
"If you encounter a rattlesnake, freeze in place to reduce the threat you pose. Slowly back away from the snake once you locate it," officials stated.
"Rattlesnakes can strike to a distance of half their body length, so it's important to put at least five feet between yourself and the snake."
Where can I learn more?
Recent encounters elsewhere underscore how quickly a rattlesnake sighting can become an emergency for hikers and pets. These articles cover pet encounters with snakes and regional spikes in activity.
• On a California hike, a husky mix needed two vials of antivenom after a rattlesnake bite.
• In the Black Hills, three bite cases in one week triggered an urgent rattlesnake warning.
• In one Arizona town, a fifth rattlesnake attack pushed authorities to warn residents again.
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