Rattlesnake Alert LLC

Rattlesnake Aversion Training sessions typically last between three and four hours, with a maximum of six dogs per group class and a minimum of two. The training focuses on teaching dogs to recognize rattlesnakes through seeing, hearing, and primarily smelling them. Live, de-fanged rattlesnakes are used, including at least two different species to cover various scents. Once a dog recognizes the snake, a low-level electronic impulse is applied to simulate a bite, ensuring the dog understands the snake is the cause. A final test is conducted to confirm effectiveness.

Trap Aversion Training, based on the rattlesnake aversion method, teaches dogs to recognize common scent lures used for conibear and snare traps. These classes are 2 to 3.5 hours long. Similar to rattlesnake training, a low-level electronic impulse is used when the dog approaches the scent, ensuring the dog associates the impulse with the lure.

For both programs, canines must be over 6 months of age and have current Rabies, Distemper, Parvo, and Bordetella vaccinations, with a certificate required. Owners or a comfortable handler must be present, preferably one handler per dog. The trainer is patient and will provide additional work after class or at a later date at no extra fee if a dog needs more time to comprehend the training.

Pricing Summary

The price for a rattlesnake aversion group class is $200.00 per dog, with no discounts for multiple dogs from the same household. Private trainings for one dog are $250.00, and for two dogs, $400.00. Private group training for four or more dogs is $200.00 per dog.

For trap aversion training, a group class is $140.00 per dog, with no price break for multiple dogs. A one-on-one private class for reactivity issues is $200.00. Prices may increase if travel is required for classes. Payment options include cash, check, Venmo, Paypal, cryptocurrency, credit card, and Zelle. If a re-check is requested by the owner and deemed unnecessary, there will be a charge.

Policies

Dogs are required to be up to date on Rabies, Distemper, Parvo, and Bordetella vaccinations, with a vaccination certificate presented. If a dog cannot receive a vaccine, a veterinarian note explaining the situation may allow accommodation. The rattlesnake aversion training is designed to last for the dog’s life, and no annual re-test or refresher is needed. If the trainer is not convinced a dog has fully comprehended the training within the class time, additional work will be provided at no extra fee. If an owner requests a re-check and it is deemed unnecessary by the trainer, a charge will apply.

Rattlesnake Alert LLC, led by Mike Parmley, specializes in rattlesnake aversion training for dogs. They also offer trap aversion training. The foundation of their aversion training is to introduce a dog to a rattlesnake or trap scent in a safe environment and teach it to avoid interaction.

Their unique advantage lies in using live, de-fanged rattlesnakes for training, ensuring dogs learn to recognize snakes through sight, sound, and especially smell in a natural setting. The “Snake Safe” method, developed by Mike’s mentor Web Parton over 40 years, is employed, which is designed to last for the dog’s life without the need for re-testing.

During training, a low-level electronic impulse is applied to simulate a bite, with careful measures taken to ensure the dog associates the impulse with the snake or scent, not the human or location. Mike Parmley prefers group sessions (maximum six dogs) as dogs learn from each other, but also offers private classes for dogs aggressive towards other dogs or humans.

Accomplishments

Mike Parmley mentored under Web Parton, who developed the “Snake Safe Training” method over 35-40 years. Rattlesnake Alert has been featured in a KUTV news segment, a Salt Lake Tribune article, a Fox13Now segment, and a Cowboy State Daily article. Mike Parmley also participated in a podcast episode with his mentor, Web Parton.

How to Get Started!

To get started, clients should contact Mike Parmley to discuss situations for aggressive dogs or to schedule private classes. For trap aversion classes, contact is made through the website’s CONTACT link. Clients are asked to arrive at least 5 minutes before the class start time to complete paperwork, ask questions, and discuss any behavioral issues. It is highly recommended to email a copy of vaccination records ahead of time or bring a copy to the training.