Leave it: Dog trainers help pets avoid poisonous snakes

Dog trainers use electronic collars to teach pets like Ripley, a blue heeler mix, to avoid venomous snakes such as western diamondbacks. The training involves simulating a snake bite to create an aversion, with experts noting it can reduce snakebite risks for dogs in regions like Arizona. The ASPCA reports up to 150,000 annual venomous snakebites to dogs in the U.S., prompting specialized training programs across the country.