Rattlesnakes Sighted In Moraga's Rancho Laguna Park; Two Dogs Bitten

Moragan William Carman checks in with some helpful advice for residents who encounter rattlesnakes in the summer months. Apparently two dogs have been bitten at in Moraga so far this month, and William wanted to get the word out to dog owners and hikers and homeowners that the crawly critters are out and moving around.

No human strikes have been reported.

Carman said the two reptile/canine encounters occurred at the fences close to the group picnic area, and near the EBMUD trail gate, and rattlers have been spotted on the EBMUD Trails just outside of the park.

Rancho Laguna, like much of Lamorinda, is located in a natural setting near open spaces that harbor wildlife that will at times enter the parks and nearby homes. Like all animals these snakes play a vital role in the eco-system but they can pack a punch, especially to a curious dog.

If you happen across a rattler (flat, diamond-shaped head, distinctive markings and most often, but not always, those distinctive tail rattles) move at least ten feet away, make sure your animals are out of range, and contact Contra Costa Snake Removal at 925-381-7199. If you can, take a picture from a distance for identification purposes.

If bitten, stay calm but seek medical attention. If your dog is bitten,

in Lafayette is the nearest 24-hour pet emergency center with antivenin as of July 13. Call them at: 925 938-7700.