Rattlesnake Ready

Rattlesnake aversion training consists of four steps completed in one half-hour session. Step 1 exposes the dog to a muzzled juvenile rattlesnake, using e-collar corrections when the dog gets too close. Step 2 focuses on scent recognition, where the dog is corrected if they investigate rattlesnake shed skin. Step 3 involves basic sound aversion, where a recording of a rattlesnake rattle is played, and an automatic correction is given as the dog approaches; recall with positive reinforcement may also be incorporated. Step 4 re-exposes the dog to a large adult rattlesnake to ensure complete avoidance.

An optional E-Collar Desensitization Training is recommended, where a dummy collar can be rented a week prior to the session to accustom the dog to wearing it. Reminder lessons, also called “follow up” or “refresher” sessions, are available for previously trained dogs. These begin with a test using an adult rattlesnake; if the dog shows interest, corrections are provided, or a “rattle and run” exercise may be performed.

Pricing Summary

The business claims to be affordable. Pricing details are available on their website. An optional dummy collar for e-collar desensitization training can be rented, with instructions provided.

Rattlesnake Ready is a dog training business specializing in realistic rattlesnake aversion training, which they claim is Arizona’s #1. Their training quickly teaches dogs to avoid venomous reptiles, including their sounds and smells, potentially saving their lives and preventing expensive emergency vet visits. They also offer avoidance training for toads.

The training process is designed to be fast, affordable, and effective, typically completed in one session lasting about half an hour. It safely exposes dogs to the real smells, sounds, and sight of live, muzzled rattlesnakes. Electronic training collars are used to simulate a rattlesnake bite, causing momentary discomfort to teach the dog “rattlesnake = ouch!”

Rattlesnake Ready trains dogs full-time and year-round at their state-of-the-art facility in Cave Creek, Arizona, which also houses their rattlesnake zoo. Limited in-home training options are also potentially available. The training is effective for dogs 6+ months old, regardless of breed or size, and is typically retained for years.

The business is veterinarian recommended and has been featured in various media, including The Wall Street Journal, local news stations, Snake Talk podcast, and Rattlesnake Solution’s YouTube channel. The owner and operator, Cody Will, is knowledgeable in both reptiles and canines, having trained thousands of dogs successfully. The live rattlesnakes used in training are well-cared for, licensed by the state, and receive regular veterinary examinations.

Accomplishments

Rattlesnake Ready is recognized as “Arizona’s #1 realistic rattlesnake aversion training” and is “VETERINARIAN RECOMMENDED.” The business has been featured in numerous articles and media, including The Wall Street Journal, local news stations, the Snake Talk podcast, and Rattlesnake Solution’s YouTube channel.

The owner and operator, Cody Will, is Pet 1st Aid/CPR Certified and holds a B.S. in Environmental Sciences from the University of California, Davis. He possesses special licenses from the Arizona Game & Fish Department, including a Lifetime Hunt/Fish License, Zoo License, and Wildlife Service License for reptiles. Cody has trained thousands of dogs in rattlesnake aversion with great success and is noted for his equal knowledge in both reptiles and canines.

How to Get Started!

Clients are advised that spring is the busiest time of year, and patience is requested for response and wait times for training. Further details about the training steps are available on their website. Clients are also encouraged to read the FAQ section on the website.