Keep the vaccine refrigerated at 35-45F. Never freeze the vaccine. Shake well before using. Each dose is 1cc, to be given subcutaneously just above the muscle and in the dead space under the subcutaneous fat and away from the mid line. This product is intended for use in healthy dogs, who are at least four months old, as an aid in the reduction of morbidity and mortality due to intoxication with Crotalus Atrox (western diamondback rattlesnake) venom. Administration should be by or under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian only. The product expiration date is two years from date of manufacture.
For the initial vaccination, two doses are recommended spaced 30 days apart. Typically, protection from boosters peaks about 30 days after boosters and lasts about six months. A dog should get at least one booster per year approximately one month before the beginning of his "rattlesnake exposure season". Dogs exposed to rattlesnakes longer than about six months per year, or dogs at higher risk, may benefit from a booster every six months.
There may be a modified initial protocol for dogs over 100 Lbs or under 25 Lbs because very large and very small dogs don't always produce enough protective antibodies from only two injections in the initial sequence. They may benefit from one additional booster shot 30 days after the first booster shot in the initial vaccination sequence (three doses total). For large or small dogs that did not receive this three-injection initial protocol, their regular subsequent boosters typically bring a dog's antibody protection up to adequate levels.
