Dog trainers are helping pets avoid venomous snakes through a specialized training program. A dog named Ripley, a 2-year-old blue heeler mix, was trained to avoid snakes after receiving a simulated bite from a western diamondback rattlesnake. The training involved a quick zap on the neck from an electronic training collar, which was sufficient to deter Ripley from approaching the snake.

The training was provided by a dog trainer from Sublime Canine in Tucson, Arizona. Ripley's owners opted for the training to protect their pet from venomous snakes. Further details about the training program are available from the source, including information about follow-up sessions to reinforce the training.