Best Snake Boots

Best Snake Boots

Always wear at least shoes when in venomous snake territory, preferably leather boots, and more preferably snake boots.

The Best Snake boots are a very effective way to protect a person’s lower legs from the danger of snake bite.  While most leather boots will effectively stop fang penetration from most snakes, snake boots usually offer more protection in that they consist of puncture proof fabric and extend far higher up the leg than the average boot; just below the knee in most cases.

There are many manufactures of snake boots that produce different styles for different activities.  The key is to find the best snake boots for your own situation. Here we will discuss the best snake boots for several different activities.

Snake Boots : Are They Necessary?

Best Snake Boots: Snake Bite

Are Snake Boots worth the hassle? We could have used some very gruesome photos.

This is a question that only you can answer.  Fact is that in the USA alone, 47 out of 50 states are home to venomous snakes.  The same ratio stands true for the rest of the world; most parts of the earth are home to some type of venomous snake with Antarctica being the only snake free continent on the planet. Some areas such as Australia, Africa, and parts of Asia are home to a plethora of the most dangerous snakes in the world, with several deadly species’ habitat overlapping and many living within close proximity of humans.

So, venomous snakes are almost everywhere and most can inflict not only an incredibly painful bite, but also possibly life changing or even fatal. A high percentage of snake bites occur on the lower half of the leg, so if you are at risk of snake bite and would like the safety and peace of mind of snake protective clothing, then snake boots are the best place to start.

Best Snake Boots for Hiking:

Best Snake Boots for hiking

Danner Pronghorn Snake Boots

While hiking, a person is very vulnerable to snake bites.  The more ground covered, the higher the likely hood of a venomous snake encounter.  Trails are often very narrow or overgrown, putting your legs right where they are vulnerable to snake bites.  Hiking is also very strenuous on the legs and feet , so a high quality, good fitting boot is needed.  There are several snake boot companies that make lace up, comfortable, walking style boots.  Be sure they fit snug and are somewhat light weight, as even the best snake boots are likely to get warm.

Your Best Bet for snake proof hiking boots is undoubtedly Danner Pronghorn Snake Boots.  They are 18″ high, extremely comfortable, and very effective in stopping snake fangs.

For more information, customer reviews or to buy, Click Here:

Danner Pronghorn Snake Proof Boots @ Amazon.com     Price: $209.95 – 239.95
Danner Pronghorn Snake Proof Boots @ Cabelas.com    Price: $209.99 – 239.99

*** Check both sites as prices change often. Buy from a site you can trust. ***

 

Best Snake Boots for Casual Wear:

Best Snake Boots: Casual

Chippewa Snake Boots: many models at the link to the right.

Snake boots can be bought in just about any style.  Among the most popular is the western style boots that extent up to the knee.  Most of these stylish snake boots are made of high quality leather and will be rather expensive, but they are very effective, comfortable, and look very nice.

Your best bet at the most comfortable, nice looking snakes boots, you should take a look at any of the boots made by Chippewa.  These are the most popular best snake boots that you will seen worn in any of the rattlesnake round ups in the southern US.  This is  because they effective, built extremely well and comfortable, and are very stylish.

For more information on all models, customer reviews or to buy , Click Here:

Chippewa Snake Boots @ Amazon.com      Price:$184.99 – $276.99

 

Best Snake Boots for Yard Work:

Snake proof gloves

For gardening and other hand work around the yard, you might want to think about Snake Gloves. Click on this picture to go to our Snake Glove page.

If you are outdoors, there is a good possibility you are running the risk of getting snake bit.  Add being outdoors with yard work or other activities outside of the house, and you chances of getting bit increase by a lot.  In fact, yards and close to homes are often where a good amount of snake bites occur as snakes are sometimes drawn to human establishments as this is often where food and cover can be found.

For these reasons, snake protective clothing, such as snake boots, are often worn.  The best snake boots for doing yard work and other activities around the house are the ones that you are most likely to wear.  The problem with most snake boots is that many of them take a long time to get on and off.  This may cause someone to neglect the need for them, thus they put on shoes and leave the snake boots behind.

So, for around the house, it is suggested to go with a very comfortable pair of snake boots that are easy to get on.  If you plan on getting quite physical, then you might want to consider lace ups that are harder to put on, but will offer more support.

To buy the best snake boots for yard work, check out the boots in the other section and decide which will be best for your situation

 

Best Snake Boots for Hunting:

Best Hunting Snake Boots

There are many different types of hunting that a person can do; therefore you must decide on the best snake boot for your situation.

While hunting, venomous snakes are encountered often.  That is why there are many boots to choose from that can be the best snake boots for hunting.  There are also several different methods of hunting, so hunting snake boots will vary depending on the area, the animal being hunted, and the level of activity that is expected throughout the day.

Hunting on Foot: For hunts that require a lot of hiking, you will benefit mostly from a full lace up boot much like the best snake boots for hiking described earlier in this article, the Danner Pronghorn Snake Boot.
Click Here:
Danner Pronghorn Snake Proof Boots @ Amazon.com     Price: $209.95 – 239.95
Danner Pronghorn Snake Proof Boots @ Cabelas.com    Price: $209.99 – 239.99
*** Check both sites as prices change often. Buy from a site you can trust. ***

Tree Stand Hunting: If you are planning on hunting out of a tree stand and scent control is an issue, then rubber snake proof boots may be your best bet.  Muck Boots make the Woody Armor Premium Hunting Boot, which is 17 inches tall and puncture proof.
Click Here to Buy: Woody Armor Premium Hunting Boot @ Muck Boots Online   Price $179.95
*** I have seen other sites advertising the same price for the 15 inch model, do not be fooled. If you want to view the 15 inch model, click here: Woody Armor Premium Hunting Boots 15″@ Amazon.com   Price: $155.99

Blind Hunting: If you are planning on hunting out of a blind, then the comfortable slip on western style snake boots or the muck boots will be your best bet.  It really depends on your style and what else you plan to use snake boots for.

Best Overall Snake Boots:

Best Snake Boots : Wear Them!

Do not be this guy! Be sure to wear some type of snake protective clothing.

Snake boots are only effective if they are on when they are needed.  Any of the boots mentioned above will offer snake fang protection below the knee, but the best snake boots for you will be determined by your own needs and situation.  The best spot to begin your search for the best snake boots is here: http://SnakeProofGear.com. There you will also be able to check out other snake protective clothing such as snake gaiters, which might be a better option for what you need snake protection for.

 

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

How to keep Snakes out of Your Yard

How to Keep Snakes Out of Your Yard

This is not what you want to see in your yard. Read this page to learn how to keep snakes out of your yard.

Now that humans have successfully inhabited most of planet Earth, we now must learn to live with the other inhabitants that call earth home.  One of the most feared creatures that we find living amongst us are snakes, and rightfully so as many can inflict a very painful, sometimes deadly, venomous bite.  “How to keep snakes out of your yard?” is a question we at hear a lot around here. While snakes will hopefully never be totally eradicated (even venomous snakes have their place), there are several ways to successfully keep snakes out of your yard and here we will list the ones that work best.

Food and Safety

There are two things that snakes need more than anything: food and a safe place to hide from predators and unfavorable temperatures.  By removing both of these items you will be able to keep most snakes out of your yard, or at least make their stay short.

Safety:

How to Keep Snakes Out Of Your Yard

If this is your yard, then you can expect snakes. If you live in area like this, then you can expect snakes in your yard.

Vegetation: One of the best ways of how to keep snakes out of your yard is to eliminate any unneeded vegetation.  This not only reduces cover for snakes, but prey species such as insects and rodents like over grown vegetation as well.  So, vegetation should be removed or cut back as much as possible.  Even tall grass will offer snakes a safe path into you yard.

Rubbish: Snakes like to hide under things such as boards, tires, firewood, cars and parts, and whatever else that can provide shelter from predators and unfavorable temperatures.  If you want to keep snakes out of your yard, you must remove any debris or rubbish that might provide a home for snakes.

Get rid of snake food

Snakes follow prey, so if you have an abundance of prey, snakes will follow.

Food:

Snakes eat many different types of creatures, so it can be hard to eradicate all food sources.  As with most predators, snakes are opportunistic feeders (they eat when they have the chance) and will eat just about anything it can catch that will fit inside their mouth.  Therefor the bigger the prey, the bigger the snake, so you must keep the prey away and most snakes will remove themselves or never come in the first place.

Pest Control:  Once you have the vegetation and rubbish removed from your yard, then it is usually beneficial to have your yard sprayed for insects.  This will help keep smaller snakes away.  To keep the bigger snakes away from your yard, rodent control may be needed.  This is usually done with traps and poisons, so you must take extreme caution as to not injure yourself or put bait where it is accessible to pets and children.  You may want to hire a pest control technician for the best results.

Still Have Sakes in Your Yard?

By just following the steps above will keep many snakes out of your yard and searching for food where they belong (anywhere but your yard).  Even still though, some yards are prone to more snake encounters than others.  For these yards, other tactics can be employed.  Luckily there are several products on the market that can successfully deter snakes from your yard.

How to keep snakes out of your lawn

Only use snake repellents with all natural, non-toxic ingredients. Most do not work as advertised so be aware when buying.

Snake Repellents:  After many years as a pest control technician, I have seen many repellants not work as advertised.  Many sources will suggest moth balls, castor oil, and other ingredients, but they do not work very well and are not worth the risk to the environment or to your family.  There is one snake repellent that has been proven to be effective in how to keep snakes out of your yard and is made out of all natural ingredients non-harmful to people or pets.  Liquid Fence Snake Repellent is the only snake repellent that we will recommend as it has been proven to be effective.  Further more, they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can try it risk free.

Liquid Fence is availiable in several fomulas: ready to use, concentrate, granular.  Though the ready to use is convenient, it last the least amount of time.  The concentrate is nice as you can apply at the strength that you want, and I suggest making it strong to deter more snakes and for a longer time.  The granular contains a time-release formula so that it also lasts a long time.  You can learn more about Liquid Fence Snake Repellent here: Snake Repellent

Snake Trap

Snakes can be effectively caught in traps.

Snake Traps:  If you have snakes in your yard, a good method of removal is to use a snake trap.  Snake traps are usually a box with a glue board inside that the snake will crawl on and get stuck.  Snakes are always looking for an area to hide from predators or a place to ambush prey, and snake traps provide a good place for all of that.  Some snake traps even have snake attractants, but they are not needed and mostly just a sales gimmick.  The traps themselves however do work, and in some places, very well. Snake traps are easy to use and are not harmful to the snake.  If you choose to, the snake may be easily removed from the glue board by spraying it with cooking spray or other oil.

Snake traps can be made out of a card board box and a glue board.  Or you can buy a snake trap that can be used for multiple snakes. There are several snake traps to choose from.  Here is a good source for finding the best snake trap for you and your yard: Snake Traps

Snake Fence:  Possibly the best way how to keep snakes out of your yard is to instal a snake fence.  Unlike your typical fence, a snake fence is only 12 inches high and barely noticeable as it blends into the surroundings.  Of course, most snakes can crawl over objects that are 12 inches tall, but for some reason, with the snake fence they don’t.  They will typically slither along it, deterring the snake from your yard.

The best things about the snake fence other than the fact that it keeps snakes out of your yard is that it is well built, easy to install, and lasts several years assuming nobody trips over it; it really does blend into the natural landscape.  For more information and videos on the best snake fence for how to keep snakes out of your yard, Click here: Snake Fence

Snake Protective Clothing:

Snake Protective Clothing

Snake gaiters can prevent a lot of pain. It hurts worse than it looks!

If you have a chance of encountering a venomous snake in or around your yard, then you might want to think about investing in some snake protective clothing.  There are several forms of snake protective clothing and most are very effective, with the most common two being snake gaiters and snake boots.

The piece of mind that snake protective clothing is worth the cost alone.  Once you add up all the medical bills and time spent in the hospital, your money would be much better spent on snake protective clothing as it can be purchased for under $50.

Protect your hands: Though legs are the most common part of the body to get bit by a snake, if you are asking “how to keep snakes out of your yard?” then you probably do a fair amount of yard work.  That means putting your hands in area where a snake may be hiding.  That is one of the reasons why bites to the hands are not far behind bites to the legs.  For working outside with your hands in snake territory, it is best that you wear snake gloves.  You can see the best snake gloves here: Snake Glove

The Benefits of Snakes:

Most people realize that snakes do in fact serve a purpose.  Snakes prey on several other organisms that people fear as well, such as insects, rodents, and other snakes.  Of course you would rather not have any of these pest in your yard, and the more snakes there are in the area, the less of the other pests there will be.  That is why it is important to let snakes be if they are not in your yard. Those that you catch, at least the nonvenomous species, should be released back into the wilderness away from any human inhabitants.    If there we no snakes, then either we would have to deal with a lot more pests,  or we would have a different type of animal feeding on what snakes eat that could be worse.

Hopefully you can use some of the information in this article on how to keep snakes out of your yard so you can enjoy the benefits of living in such a beautiful area, and not fear when your kids or pets are playing outside.  While there are no methods that are 100% effective to keep snakes out of your yard, by following these tips, you will be sure to see less snakes.

 

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Best Pet Snake: Rubber Boa

Where To Get A Rubber Boa: Rubber Boas for Sale

Rubber Boa: The Best Pet Snake

The best pet snake: Rubber Boa

The Rubber Boa is a very docile, gentle snake that makes a very great pet that will never bite.

Though it is rarely referred to as a pet, a Rubber Boa is most definitely an interesting creature, and in my own opinion, it is the best pet snake that a person can have, especially for a first pet snake.

Everything about a Rubber Boa Snake is easy from their temperament, care, feeding, and hygiene.  Most snakes are a pet to be observed but not to be played with.  Rubber Boas are the type of pet snake a person can interact with, as they enjoy the warmth from a hand and will curl up on one for hours.  The feeling is mutual, as a humans hand enjoys the soft feel of these docile serpents.

What Makes a Rubber Boa So Great?

  • Interactive: Rubber Boas will be a pet that you can hold, touch, be held by, and not be afraid that it is going to get away while playing with it.  They are rather slow and will prefer to hang out on a warm hand any day and stay there for a long time.  The feel of their skin is much like their name, Rubber, but even softer than that.
  • Appealing:  Rubber Boas have been used as a form of treatment for snake phobias in several cases.  While most snakes are fast and quick to bite, Rubber Boas are slow, docile, and almost never bite (I have never seen nor heard of one biting, but it could happen).  If they are to bite a person, it will be harmless and most likely painless.  The one thing that impresses me most of these snakes is their soft texture, which is why they are called a Rubber Boa.
  • Rubber Boa distribution

    Rubber Boas are native to the west United States, with other similar species found else where.

    Easy to Care For: Rubber Boas are very easy to take care of.  They do best in an area that has similarities to their native range which is mostly limited to the Northwestern U.S. and Southwestern Canada.  They can be found in both arid forests to the rainforests of the coast.  Their temperature preference is between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, such as room temperature in a home, and need a decent size dish of water for them to soak in.  The only cleaning necessary is switching out the water once it had been defecated in.

  • Easy to Feed:  Rubber Boas eat primarily on young rodents in the wild while fending off the parents with their blunt tail.  Therefore it is best to feed them pink mice, and several at a time.  They are known to binge feed and then not eat for a month or two.  That is why they will eat several in one setting.

 

See How Gentle These Snakes Are!


 

A Rubber Boa has many benefits over other snakes.

Here is a list of just a few of the benefits as well as the one negative of Rubber Boas.

Benefits:

  • Interactive: easy to hold
  • Soft to touch
  • Slow moving
  • Won’t Bite
  • Safe around children
  • Easy to care for
  • Long life span: 15-25 years

Negative:

  • Hard to find in the wild and hard to find for sale.
Rubber Boa: the best pet snake

Rubber Boas love to be held and will wrap around hands, arms, and fingers as they enjoy human body heat. Their soft feel makes them a welcome guest.

While there are not too many bad things about this species of snake, the biggest downside is the lack of places to buy a Rubber Boa.  I will keep an eye out and list any links I can find that sale them.  The ones that I have had, I have caught on the road at dusk as I live in the Northern Idaho where they are common to find.  They are incredible hiders and I have never seen one anywhere except for on the road.  I would not attempt to go looking for them though as many times where they live is also areas that you may find rattlesnakes, unless of course you are in to that type of thing.

Rubber Boas are the type of snake the entire family can have fun with.  They are incredibly good for people who are afraid of snakes, or who have the wrong idea about snakes being slimey and gross.  Rubber boas are quite the opposite and in fact are soft and gentle.

 

Please tell us your stories and what you think of Rubber Boas so others will learn how great of pets these snake can be!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Snake Gaiters: Are They Worth the Effort

Snake Protective Clothing: Snake Proof Gaiters

A good pair of boots and snake gaiters will be effective against most snakes around the world.

If you have ever worn a high quality pair of snake gaiters then you know they are worth the time and effort that you put into them.  The piece of mind that you get from having them on is worth it alone, not to mention the risk that you face without them.  I can’t tell you from personal experience that it is not fun when you are miles away from help and have been bit by a venomous snake, but we all can imagine. This situation has run through my mind many times when out on my own, miles away from my vehicle, and hundreds of miles from the nearest hospital.

After having two close calls with rattlesnakes in less than a month in areas where I was by myself and had several miles of hiking or rowing to get to my vehicle, not to mention the many of miles that I would have to travel from there to get medical attention, I have decided to take the easy road and buy snake proof gaiters to ease my mind and avoid an uncertain situation that could result in certain pain, if not death.

So, I ask the question: What would you do if you were five miles and 2000 vertical feet below the trail head and your vehicle and happen to get bit by a venomous snake?  Well, hopefully it will only be a rattlesnake, and not one of the many more dangerous snakes that inhabit this earth.  But seriously, no matter where you are, it is easier to prevent a snake bite then it is to treat one.

Unfortunately most of the snake bites and snake deaths occur in the parts of the earth where antivenins are not near as available as in the developed world.  The most snake bites and deaths happen in areas such as Southern Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and most of all, India.  These are also the areas where the majority of the people cannot afford to invest in the life saving benefits that snake gaiters and other snake bite prevention clothing can provide.

Snake Gaiters

Snake Protective Clothing: Snake Gaiters

Snake Gaiters are the easiest, least noticable, and most affordable way to protect the lower legs against snake bites.

Snake gaiters, though not as popular as snake boots can still offer the same amount of snake bite prevention, but cost far less and are much less restrictive. When deciding on a pair of snake gaiters, there will be several decisions that will be the deciding factors on which brand and model a person will end up with.  There are basically two price differences when it comes to snake gaiters.  A person can either elect to go with a cheap pair or a high quality pair of snake gaiters.  Both are 100% effective, but when it comes to materials and comfortability, the purchase of the more expensive and high quality snake gaiters will definitely not be regretted, as it is far more likely that they will be worn when they are needed.  You see, the top quality brands of snake gaiters are made of a puncture proof fabric where as the less expensive models are typically made out hard plastics such as PVC.  Hard plastics are hot, stiff, and sweaty when it comes to snake season and they are wrapped tightly around your legs.  The high quality snake gaiters are made out of fabric that is similar to the feel of good rain gear, and typically folds up into a tight package.

Check out the best Snake Gaiters Here: www.SnakeProofGear.com/snake-gaiters

So what am I saying?  I am saying save your money and buy a pair of snake gaiters that you will actually wear and not have to spend additional money in order to get the pair you should have bought in the first place.  Of course, everybody’s situation is different, so I cannot tell anybody what is going to be better for them, but what I have said is from my personal experiences.  I spend a lot of time outdoors and have found that you get what you pay for when it comes to outdoor equipment.  I started with a cheap pair but ended up with the best that money can buy.  Yes they may be twice the price, but they are three times more comfortable and will be on three times as long.

The best way to find out what type of snake bite prevention clothing is best for you is to test it yourself and see what you will determine to be the best.  Unfortunately this is money and time consuming, so the next best thing is to take the advice from someone who has already put the gear through the test.  To see what brands of snake gaiters and snake boots that someone who knows what they are talking about recommends, go to www.SnakeProofGear.com/snake-gaiters.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Snake Protective Clothing

Snake Protective clothing

Rattlesnakes are the most common venomous snakes found in the US, but other venomous snakes can be found all over the world.

With a long past and certain future working, living and playing in venomous snake territory, my family and I have had to learn how to coexist with these dangerous reptiles by gearing up with Snake Protective Clothing in order to prevent a painful and possibly fatal snake bite.

So many times I have found myself in remote country miles from any road, wondering what I would do if I were to be bit by a Rattle Snake. Is it best to find an area with adequate water and ride it out and hope help comes? Or is it better to see if it is possible to make it out of the back country before expiring and risk pumping the venom throughout the body? How about neither? These are the thoughts that feel my head and led me to find the best snake protective clothing made so as to ease my mind and prevent a future tragedy.

This page is to let you know what I have found works best for me and discuss which aspects should be assessed when choosing snake gaiters as well as other snake protective gear such as snake proof boots, snake proof chaps, snake proof pants, and snake gloves, and which brands I have found to work best.

Snake Gaiters

Through my research and experimentation of snake protection, Snake Gaiters have been the first thing that I reach for. Not because they are more protective than the other forms of snake protection (quite the opposite actually), but because they are the least restrictive, most comfortable, and the lightest weight. When the snakes are out, it is typically warm and I am usually performing a physical task, therefore I am trying to stay as cool as possible so any extra layers are not exactly what I want to pack around. That being said, the snakes around my home average about 3 feet in length, making their striking height below the knee. If you live in a part of the world where venomous snakes can grow to 4 feet or more, then you might want to invest in snake chaps or leggings.

Snake Protective Clothing: Snake Proof Gaiters

Snake Gaiters are the easiest, cheapest and most comfortable form of snake protection you can by.

There are many different manufactures of snake proof gaiters. I have yet to use or hear about any that do not effectively provide snake bite protection, but what I have found is that some are definitely more comfortable and are better made than others. Unfortunately, the best pair that I have found is also the most expensive. They are worth every penny though because I have used cheaper snake gaiters that I had to force myself to wear. They will not do anybody any good if they are not on, so I suggest buying the right pair in the first place and save yourself the expense of having to buy the snake gaiters you should have bought in the first place.

TurtleSkin Snake Armor is the company that manufactures the best snake gaiters that money can buy. They are as light as quality rain gear making them hard to tell they are even on. There are other manufactures out their that make an effective product, but they do not offer the comfort that the TurtleSkin Snake Armor does. Many are made with hard plastics such as PVC coating whereas the TurtleSkins are made out of a puncture proof fabric. One complaint is that they are almost impossible to mend with a needle and a threat because a needle won’t even pass through it. Is this a bad thing when talking snake fangs or not?

To get the full review of TurtleSkin Snake Armor Gaiters, as well as a look at the other quality snake gaiters on the market, click here: Snake Proof Gear.com/Snake-Gaiters

Snake Boots

17' Tall Danner Snake Boot

Snake Boots are basically the same as your typical boot, except they are at least twice the height, giving solid protection from snake bites almost up to the knee. Just looking at Snake Boots makes one think they will not be very comfortable, but once you wear them you will be surprised at how much you don’t realize they are any taller than a standard boot. Of course, the first time you wear them you will notice, but give it a couple outings and as long as it is not to hot out, you will find them to be similar in comfortableness as your regular boots.

I find Danner Pronghorn Snake Boots to be just as comfortable as wearing most standard snake gaiters. Like I mentioned though, they are definitely warm. There are other manufactures of snake boots as well, but I have found the Danner Pronghorns to be the most comfortable and the best built with a gortex waterproof liner. They also are an inch or two higher than the others, which could make all the difference.

To get a full review on Danner Snake Boots and the other reputable Snake Proof Boots click here: www.Snake Proof Gear.com/Snake-Boots

 

Snake Chaps – Snake Leggings

Snake Protective Clothing: Snake Proof Chaps/Snake Proof Leggings

Snake Proof Chaps are the most protective form of snake protective clothing. Make sure they are puncture proof clear up to the top and not just below the knee.

The most effective snake protection can be attained through the use of Snake Chaps, also known as Snake Leggings. Snake Chaps slip over your pants and hook onto your belt to give you total leg protection. This total snake protection may be needed in areas where snakes may be off the ground or where snakes grow long enough that they may be able to strike above the knee.

One thing you need to be aware of when buying snake chaps is that not all offer snake bite protection above the knee! In fact, most do not, which kind of defeats the purpose of snake chaps in the first place. This is the reason I have only found three different brands that I can endorse.

TurtleSkin Snake Armor sales the best snake leggings that I have ever tried on. They are made of the same puncture proof fabric their snake gaiters are made out of which makes them light, comfortable, and the closest to unnoticeable as it gets. They are also nice to have when working in brush with thorns as they will stand up against almost anything and this is when I use them most often. In my home area, the snakes just aren’t long enough to strike much above the knee. It is fact though that a snake can strike a distance equal to half their length, so you need to make a decision on whether it is worth the extra protection and money.

TurtleSkin Snake Chaps are not cheap. They typically run in the area of $235, but are made to last a long time and possibly save your life. The other brands that I endorse, though not as highly, are much less expensive and almost as protective. Though not made with half the quality of the TurtleSkin Snake Chaps or Snake Gaiters, you can by three pairs for the price of one.

To check out the full review on TurtleSkin Snake Chaps as well as other brands, click on the link at the end of this article in the conclusion that will take you to the www.SnakeProofGear.com./snake-chaps

 

Snake Proof Gloves

Snake Protective Clothing: Snake Proof Gloves

Snake Proof Gloves are more important than one usually thinks. Hands are a common place for a snake bite.

The hands are one of the most common areas that people throughout the world get bit by venomous creatures such as snakes, spiders, scorpions, and more. Gardening, landscaping, and working outside is when Snakes usually bite people on the hands as they are reaching down and pulling weeds or moving something on the ground. Venomous snakes are so camouflaged and fast that often you will not even know what hit you at first. That is when Snake gloves can give you a ton of protection and lots of peace of mind. Any glove is better than none and might fend off a fang, but I prefer to go with a glove that is puncture proof. Just like their snake gaiters and snake chaps, TurtleSkin Snake Armor has developed a glove out of the same materials that is comfortable, flexible, and most of all, effective.

To read a full review of the Turtle Skin Snake Glove and to purchase, click here: www.SnakeProofGear.com/Snake-Gloves.

Once you have had the piece of mind that Snake Gaiters and other forms of snake protection can offer you, you will realize what you have been missing out on. It is not worth having to worry about snakes, and with as comfortable and affordable snake protection can be, it simply makes sense to take that extra step for yourself and the loved ones around you. Please, do not be part of the statistic. Save yourself from paranoia, risk, and the possible pain. To go to a website devoted to ensuring that you buy the snake proof gear that will work best for your situation, click on the following link: www.SnakeProofGear.com where you will find reviews and can purchase snake gaiters, snake chaps, snake boots, snake pants and snake gloves.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Why Snake Proof Gear

What Led Me to Snake Gaiters and Other Forms of Snake Protection

Why Wear Snake Protection

Areas like this are wear snake protection is essential. If bit by a venomous snake down here a person would have a several mile hike to get help.

I want to share two stories that led to me finally breaking down and buying my first form of snake protection: Snake Gaiters. Feel free to skip this section if you want to just get to the valuable information on Snake Gaiters, Chaps, Boots, and Gloves.

Close Call #1

I spend a lot of time walking along the river after it goes down in the late spring near my home. Late spring is the most active time for snakes in my area because of the perfect temperature. One day, after avoiding two snakes rattle snakes earlier, I was walking along an old road with cliffs on one side and brush down to the river on the other side. I noticed a Gray Racer (nonvenomous) slip away to my left very quickly. That got my attention away from my intended path as I walked and watched it quickly slithery away. That is when I felt a tap on my boot as it was in the air in mid stride with my other foot on the ground. I knew what it felt like but before I could comprehend it I heard a buzz. By this time I had already taken another step or two so I was out of the danger zone, but it was that unmistakable buzz that we hear all to often. When I looked back there he was coiled up shaking his rattles. I cannot say with 100% certainty that the tap I felt on the sole of my boot was the rattle snake attempting to bite me, but I am sure glad I was wearing my wading boots and not sandals like so many other times I’ve been on the river. Then to think that he could have struck at my other foot that was on the ground and had to have been an easier target! My boots are only six inches tall, which is probably at least as high as my boot was in mid-stride. I had a two mile walk back to my pontoon boat and than a 5 mile float to where I ride was parked; I would have been in pain with venom flowing through my veins for at least a couple hours.

Close Call # 2

Pacific Rattlesnake

The Pacific Rattlesnake is the species I deal with the most and luckily they are not as toxic as most of the others that are found in the USA

A buddy and I descended 2000 feet into a canyon that I like to fly fish a couple times a year and spend a night or two in the wilderness (the picture above is the area I am talking about). This is a place that is National Forest Wilderness Area with no roads and no mechanical methods of transportation allowed.

The first night we got in there it rained from dark to daylight, hard. Thank goodness we took a tent. In the morning, we put on our waders and river boots and headed up the trail with our rods in hand. The trail was overgrown and in many spots we were walking through brush where we could not see the ground. I always think about the snakes, as I have seen plenty in this area, but what can you do? Besides it rained all night and I did not think they would be out.

My buddy stopped behind me and said “Hey, check this out!” So I went back to him and there in the trail, right where I just walked, lay a coiled up rattle snake. He was pretty docile, but I am sure if I would have planted a foot on him, he would have been striking at me with a venom filled fangs. What do you do with a rattle snake bite when you have 5 miles and a 2000 vertical foot climb to the pickup? At least this scenario I had a partner with me to get help, most times I go in there by myself (I know, foolish but I can’t always find anybody to go with me). Hopefully my waiters would have stopped the fangs; if not there would have been trouble.

Turtleskin Snake Gaiters

Protecting against snake bite can be very effective and as easy as slipping them on over your pants.

The Moral of the Stories…

It makes me wonder how many close calls we have working and playing in snake country. You won’t find me in these areas anymore without my snake gaiters on. They are so light that I don’t even notice them anyway, why would I go without them? Thanks for reading my stories and I hope they have helped to persuade you that it is not worth the risk of going without snake gaiters, or at least some type of snake protection.  Please read on to see what types of Snake Protection I have found to work best for me.

Conclusion

Once you have had the piece of mind that Snake Gaiters and other forms of snake protection can offer you, you will realize what you have been missing out on. It is not worth having to worry about snakes, and with as comfortable and affordable snake protection can be, it simply makes sense to take that extra step for yourself and the loved ones around you. Please, do not be part of the statistic. Save yourself from paranoia, risk, and the possible pain. To go to a website devoted to ensuring that you buy the snake proof gear that will work best for your situation, click on the following link: www.SnakeProofGear.com where you will find reviews and can purchase snake gaiters, snake chaps, snake boots, snake pants and snake gloves.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Venomous Snake Bites

Venomous Snake Bites

By Chris Jackson

Venomous Snakes

Rattlesnakes are the most prevalent venomous snake in North America. It is in the Pit Viper Family, which can be found in much of the world.

Venomous snakes can be found on all continents around the world except for Antarctica.  More than likely you live in a region that is home to a native species of Venomous snake, if not several.  Throughout the world there are at least 3000 species of snakes, but only about 15 percent of the snake species are said to be of concern to humans and can cause venomous snake bites.  Those 15 percent are what we will focus on as we explore their toxic venom, where they live, and what you can do to avoid contact with their fangs.

Snake Venom

There are essentially 4 types of venom and each venomous snake has at least one, and in a few cases, all.  They two main types of venom are hemotoxic and neurotoxic  and were said to be the only two for some time but now we know that some snakes carry venoms that are myotoxic and cytotoxic, but these are rare so they will not be discussed much here.

Hemotoxic types of snake venom are designed to attack the blood and tissue and are extremely painful.  These cause local effects that can be permanent, but will most likely not result in death but definitely can.

Neurotoxic venom is typically more potent and dangerous than Hemotoxic, but is said to result in less pain as it affects the nervous system and brain.  The results are characterized by shutting down of certain body organs, muscle spasms, and distorted brain function.  Antivenom needs to be administered as soon as possible if neurotoxic venom is injected into a person’s body.


Venomous Snake Distribution

Venomous Snake Distribution

Earth's venomous snake distribution

North and South America:Venomous snakes are wide spread throughout all of the Americas with the exception of most of Canada and all of Alaska.

In the United States, 47 out of 50 states are home to at least one of the 19 species of venomous snakes that call it home.  Of these they can be broken into two groups: Coral snakes and the much more widespread pit viper.  There are 17 species of pit vipers in the US and include all of the rattle snakes, copperheads and water moccasins.  All of these species, just like the pit vipers around the world have Hemotoxic venom except for the pigmy rattlesnake which also has nuerovenom.  Both species of coral snake have neurotoxic venom.  On average there are about 8000 snake bites a year in the U.S. with those resulting in less than 8 deaths a year.

Australia: This continent is home to the 11 most poisonous land snakes in the world, and one of few places where there are actually more venomous snakes than nonvenomous.  Luckily though, most live in remote areas so fatalities are rare.  There is an average of 3000 bites and 2 deaths a year here, a true testament to the power of antivenoms as at one time 50% of these bites resulted in death.  The Inland Taipan is arguably the strongest venom produced by any land snake in the world.  It lives in a small portion of Australia though which is mostly remote, so bites are rare.  The Brown and Tiger Snakes are responsible for the most bites in the A.U.

Europe: Most venomous snakes living in Europe belong to the viper family and deliver Hemotoxic venom that is comparably weak on a scale with many other snakes throughout the world.  On average, 30 people die annually from snake bites, but that would be much higher if it weren’t for plentiful medical help with antivenom.

Africa:  The biggest problem that Africa faces when it comes to venomous snakes is the fact that medical care is sparse.  Antivenoms require a high level of care and need to be refrigerated.  This is why Africa has so many deaths from snake bites each year.  That and because they have many species of snakes with strong venom.

Asia:  All of southern Asia is a mecca for venomous snakes and their toxic bites.  This area is responsible for more than all other snake bites in the world combined.  India is the hot bed of it all.  Again, much like Africa, the lack of antivenoms and medical services is the main reason for death by lethal snake toxins.  It is estimated that 50,000 people die a year in India alone from snake bites.  Most of the deaths are on agricultural workers that work in the farm land that attracts snake prey.  The Russell’s Viper is the most deadly snake in the world (not the most toxic, see Australia above) and kills up to 20,000 Indian’s every year.

What to Do If Bit By a Venomous Snake: GET MEDICAL ATTENTION!!!

  1. Keep calm and get away from the snake.
  2. Keep bite lower than the heart and apply a snug band two inches above and below the bite, but do not make it so tight as to cut off circulation.  Slowing the venom moving through the tissue is the goal.
  3. Immobilize the bite area to reduce the spread of venom with a splint.
  4. If there is a long distance to travel, help will be needed to minimize movement.
  5. Contact emergency services as soon as possible and get medical attention where you will be administered antivenoms.

Conclusion

While it is always good to know about venomous snakes and what to do if you get bit, the best thing you can do is avoid getting bit all together.  The most definite thing you can do is avoid venomous snake territory.  Of course, this is not always as easy as said.  A good way to prevent venomous snake bites is to wear snake protective gear.  Snake protection comes in many different forms, and what is best for you will vary with your situation.  Snake boots, gaiters, chaps, pants, and gloves are all available for purchase.  You can learn more about snake protective gear and the best brands of each at this site: www.SnakeProofGear.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Poisonous Snake Bites: What Not To Do

Poisonous Snake Bites: What Not To Do

Poisonous Snake Bites

Though the King Cobra doesn't have the most potent venom, it has one of the highest kill rates of all snakes due to the fact there is a lack of anti-venom in the areas they inhabit.

Throughout the world there’s an average of 2.5 million venomous snake bites each year.  Of those, 125,000 result in death, largely because antivenom is not readily available in the areas that most poisonous snake bites occur.  If you are in a situation in which yourself or someone you know has been bitten, it is wise to have an idea of the things to do and not to do to lessen the severity of the bite.
In the developed areas of the world, very few deaths occur due to snake bites as more often than not, the antivenoms are on hand at medical facilities.  The under developed world is quite the opposite as antivenoms are quite expensive to keep on hand, especially in an area where the average person cannot afford to pay for it when they need it.  India has more deaths by snakes than any other country combined.

If bit by a poisonous snake, the first thing you want to do is get away from the snake, obviously the only thing worse than one bite is two.  Now that you are safely away, let’s go over a few things you should not do if there has been a snake bite as many of the old fashion techniques that have worked in the movies are now known to be false and in some cases can make the end result even worse.

Things Not to Do if Bit by a Poisonous Snake:

  1. Panic:  This is tough, but panicking will only result in high heart rates and faster spreading of the venom.  The best thing to do is to lie down and take deep breaths, but try to keep the bite lower than the heart.  By keeping still, this allows the venom to localize and not spread as much.
  2. Suck:  Do not attempt to suck out venom unless you do it on yourself.  Having a person suck on a wound of another person is a good recipe for infection.  If done immediately and does not hinder the time of getting medical attention, a person can try to suck out venom on themselves but it is said they will not get much out and probably not worth the effort.  A suction device can be used but again will not remove a significant amount of venom.
  3. Cut:  Do not cut the snake bite to extract venom.  This may cause tissue damage and will increase blood rate around the bite, making things worse.  Again, cutting also brings upon the threat of infection.
  4. Tourniquet:  While it is advised to place a constricting band above and below the bite, placing a tourniquet on the area is highly unadvised and can result in the loss of a limb, and possibly a life.
  5. Ice:  Do not cool the area to prevent swelling.  The area needs to swell and should not be hindered.  You should remove all rings and bracelets, even if they are not in the bite area, as you never know how and where the toxins will affect you.
  6. Stimulant:  Do not administer any medicines unless a doctor tells you to.

There are other things that should be avoided, but most are common sense.

Things that you should do if bit by a Poisonous Snake:

  1. Keep calm and get away from the snake.
  2. Keep bite lower than the heart.
  3. Apply a snug band two inches above and below the bite, but do not make it so tight as to cut off circulation.  Slowing the venom moving through the tissue is the goal.
  4. Immobilize the bite area to reduce the spread of venom with a splint.  If there is a long distance to travel, help will be needed to minimize movement.
  5. Contact emergency services as soon as possible and get medical attention where you will be administered antivenins.

While it is always good to know what to do if you get bit by a rattlesnake, the best thing you can do is avoid getting bit all together.  The most definite thing you can do is avoid poisonous snake territory.  Of course, this is not always easy as said.  A good way to prevent rattle snake bites is to wear snake protective gear.  Snake protection comes in many different forms, and what is best for you will vary with your situation.  Snake boots, gaiters, chaps, pants, and gloves are all available for purchase.  You can learn more about snake protective gear and the best brands of each at this site: www.SnakeProofGear.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

How to Treat a Rattlesnake Bite

how to treat a rattlesnake bite

Rattlesnakes account for more venomous snake bites in the USA than any other snakes combined.

Rattlesnake bites account for an overwhelming amount of the venomous bites that occur in the Unites States, as they are the most prevalent venomous snakes and are found in all but three states in the USA (Maine, Alaska, and Hawaii). If you are one of the unlucky 8000 victims of rattlesnake snake bites that occur each year in the U.S. it will be very important that you know how to treat a rattlesnake bite and what to do to minimize the effects as they can be lifelong and even life threatening if not taken care of correctly.

There are several things you should do if bitten by a rattlesnake or other venomous snake that can lessen the severity of the toxic effects that snake venom has on the body. Likewise there are many things that you should not do, many of which have been said to be beneficial in the past that have since been proven wrong.

How to Treat a Rattlesnake Bite:

  1. Get away from the snake! Obviously the last thing you want is to get bit twice.
  2. Stay calm! Letting your adrenalin get the best of you is a good way to get your heart beat up and increase the rate of the venom spreading.
  3. If you can get help to your position without moving very far, then lay down with the bite area lower than the heart and call for help by dialing 911 or the appropriate medical emergency contact.
  4. If you need to get to an area where you can contact emergency services, do so while immobilizing the area of the bite with a splint to reduce the movement of the affected area.
  5. Remove rings and bracelets that may get in the way of swelling.Place a band about two inches both above and below the bite with it snug to slow the spreading of the venom. Do not make it so tight as to restrict blood flow as this can make things worse.
  6. If possible, it is advised to wash the bite area with soap and water.
  7. Seek medical care as soon as possible to get the antivenins. If the person bit must walk a ways to get help, it is wise to rest for up 10-20 minutes in order to allow the venom to localize and not spread throughout the body.

How to NOT Treat a Rattlesnake Bite:

How to Treat a Rattlesnake Bite

This is what a rattlesnake bite can look like 8 days a bite. The venom deteriorates the flesh. Protect yourself with the equipment listed below.

  1. Sucking Venom out is said to not be much help. Definitely do not suck venom out of another person as this is a possible way of transmitting bacteria and causing infection, make a poisonous snake bit much worse.
  2. Icing and cooling a rattlesnake bite is not suggested and is said to make the damaging effects even worse.
  3. Do not cut the bite what so ever, as this can cause tissue damage and lead to quicker spreading of the venom, and again enhances the chances of infection.
  4. Do not but a constricting band directly over the bite in a tourniquet like fashion. Blood flow is essential and lack of could result in loss of an extremity.

Rattlesnake Bite Prevention

While it is always good to know how to treat a rattlesnake bite, the best thing you can do is avoid getting bit all together. The most definite thing you can do is avoid poisonous snake territory. Of course, this is not always that easy.

A good way to prevent rattle snake bites is to wear snake protective gear. Snake protection comes in many different forms, and what is best for you will vary with your situation. The most popular types of snake protective gear include (click on link to learn more): Snake Gaiters, Snake Boots, Snake Chaps, and Snake Gloves.  These items not only provide protection from rattlesnake bites (all venomous snakes), but also provide a person with piece of mind for themselves and their family.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment