Western Massasauga Rattlesnake (adult) euthanasia

This is the second snake I have encountered this year, and just minutes after encountering the first. Sadly, I was not able to save this one.

A two stage method is used, where Lidocaine provides anesthetic pain block, and makes the administration of the following agent less painful. The Tricaine provides sedative anesthesia and stops pulmonary and cardiac function. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2694699/

Also keep in mind, I am handling this particular snake in this manner due to the fact that his jaw is crushed and he presents no real bite danger in his condition. For bite capable snakes other handling methods are used.

I initially identified this one as a Prairie rattlesnake, but after looking at it at home, it is a large adult Western Massasauga. The only obvious differentiation between the two, is the Massasauga has 9 large head scales, and the Prairie rattlesnake has many more.

Wichita Falls Reptile Rescue

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• rattlesnake
• massasauga