We employ live rattlesnakes in our training regimen to effectively teach your dog proper avoidance of them. This approach is essential as nothing mimics the scent of a live rattlesnake quite like the real thing. Using deceased frozen snakes wouldn't yield the same results, as your dog would learn to avoid any lifeless snake encountered in the desert.

Arizona boasts the highest diversity of rattlesnake species in the United States. The exact count varies depending on the source; the Arizona Game and Fish Department recognizes 13 primary species, excluding the ten (10) sub-species specific to Arizona. Hence, considering both main species and sub-species, there are a total of 23 distinct varieties of rattlesnakes in the region.

In this training method, I utilize an electronic collar, commonly known as a shock collar, on the dog. A transmitter under my control sends a signal to the collar, delivering a harmless yet attention-grabbing shock. This shock is calibrated to effectively convey the message of the dangers posed by rattlesnakes to your dog. Drawing from my expertise and understanding of canine behavior, I adjust the transmitter settings accordingly.

It's important to note that dogs react differently to the shock; some may simply lower their head while others may vocalize or exhibit more dramatic reactions. If you're concerned about the perceived harshness of this training approach and are unwilling to subject your dog to a momentary discomfort to prevent a potentially fatal, and certainly excruciating, rattlesnake bite, then this method may not be suitable for you.

Training conducted at our Scottsdale facility is priced at $100 per dog, ensuring individualized attention as sessions are one-on-one with just you and your dog(s). Yearly retests, scheduled after the initial training, incur a fee of $50 per dog.

For off-site group training sessions held at locations other than our Scottsdale facility, within the Phoenix Metropolitan area, such as dog clubs and organizations the cost remains $100 per dog. However, these sessions typically require a minimum number of dogs, typically ranging from 12 to 15 (please contact us for more details on large group scheduling). Should retests be necessary at these off-site locations, the fee remains $50 per dog. It's important to note that all training sessions are conducted by appointment only.

Training Fee:

Scottsdale Location:

$100 per new dog

$50 per retest

Off-Site Location:

$200 for first dog + $80 per additonal dog

$80 per retest

While our training methods have demonstrated significant effectiveness, we cannot offer a 100% guarantee. We diligently strive to instill in dogs the understanding that rattlesnakes pose a threat and to steer clear of them. However, it's important to acknowledge the multitude of variables at play, including wind direction, snake location, dog behavior, and environmental factors like terrain and cover. Despite our best efforts, we cannot ensure that a trained dog will never encounter a rattlesnake bite.

Nevertheless, post-training, the likelihood of avoiding such incidents is greatly enhanced. To uphold our commitment to providing this invaluable service to dog owners, we require all clients to sign a waiver of liability form.

To schedule your training session, please contact us at (602) 469-3441.