Western Colorado Woman Saves Her Dog From a Rattlesnake Bite
What started as a casual hike near Loma turned into a life-or-death moment for one Western Colorado woman and her dog.
Heather Root was out on the Kokopelli Trails with her two dogs, Miko and Murphy, when they came across what she first thought was a harmless snake. Within moments, the situation turned serious—Miko, her one-eyed husky, was bitten on the snout by a rattlesnake.
Root quickly called her husband, an EMT, who advised her to carry Miko down the trail to slow the spread of venom. Despite the pain, the husky remained calm while Root rushed both dogs back to safety. Thanks to quick action and an emergency trip to the vet, Miko received anti-venom in time and has since made a full recovery.
Veterinarians say about 80% of dogs survive rattlesnake bites if treated promptly, but anti-venom is critical. Without it, the odds drop dramatically. With rattlesnakes common across Colorado, pet owners are encouraged to stay alert on hikes, keep dogs leashed in high-risk areas, and know the signs of a bite.
This close call serves as a reminder: preparation and quick thinking can mean the difference between tragedy and survival when sharing Colorado’s trails with wildlife.
🐾 Tips for Keeping Dogs Safe from Rattlesnakes in Colorado
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Stay on the trail: Avoid tall grass, brush, or rocky areas where snakes may hide.
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Keep dogs leashed: Prevent them from running ahead or sniffing blindly into dangerous spots.
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Be alert: Listen for the telltale rattle and watch where you step.
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Act fast if bitten: Carry your dog if possible and get to a vet immediately.
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Consider rattlesnake training: Some trainers offer snake-avoidance programs for dogs.
