One encounter with a rattlesnake can cost you thousands — or your dog's life. Our expert-led training teaches dogs to detect and avoid rattlesnakes for good. Although annual refreshers are highly reccomended.
Most dogs encounter rattlesnakes out of curiosity — they have no natural fear. Hiking trails, backyards, parks, and open desert are all prime territory. One afternoon of training can protect your dog for years.
Our unique 12-station approach is unlike anything else offered in rattlesnake avoidance training. Your dog is exposed to various sized rattlesnakes in various positions and conditions — different scent exposures, different sound conditions, different visual presentations — totaling at least 12 identification and avoidance opportunities in a single session. The final 4 stations are dedicated to proofing, confirming and verifying the effectiveness of the training before your dog leaves.
Your dog learns to identify the scent of a live rattlesnake across multiple exposures — different snake sizes, different conditions — before they ever see one.
Dogs learn to recognize rattlesnakes visually — varying sizes, positions, and movement patterns — building a firm and reliable avoidance association.
The rattle is the last warning before a strike. We train dogs to respond immediately across varied sound conditions and distances.
The final 4 stations verify and confirm the training. Your dog must demonstrate clear, reliable avoidance before they graduate — no guesswork, no assumptions.
Built around one goal: your dog comes home safe every single time.
Results typically last 1–2 years. Annual refreshers recommended for high-risk areas.
From Chihuahuas to large working dogs — every breed benefits.
No multi-week programs or complicated homework required.
Live rattlesnakes professionally managed — the only method that truly works.
Certified in dog training and reptile handling with years of experience.
Hit the trails, let them run — without constant fear of what's lurking.
Safe rattlesnake avoidance training requires more than a skilled dog trainer — it requires certified professionals who handle live rattlesnakes with expertise and care. Meet the father-son team who make our training sessions possible.
Cary is a well-known Santa Clarita Valley community leader and the face of The Snake School's rattlesnake wrangling operation. A passionate advocate for wildlife safety and co-existence, Cary has made it his mission to educate families and pet owners about living safely alongside rattlesnakes in Southern California. When a rattlesnake shows up where it's not welcome, Cary is the one people call — and he handles every encounter with calm, respect for the animal, and a deep commitment to public safety. His hands-on experience with live rattlesnakes is central to what makes our avoidance training so effective.
Scott works alongside his father Cary as part of The Snake School's wrangling team, bringing a shared passion for rattlesnake safety and wildlife education to every session. Together, Cary and Scott co-founded The Snake School for Dogs with lead trainer Britany Morano — combining expert dog training with professional rattlesnake handling to create one of the most comprehensive avoidance programs in Southern California. Scott's role ensures every training session runs safely, smoothly, and with the highest standard of care for both the animals and the dogs being trained. After consulting with expert herpetologists on the matter of muzzled rattlesnakes, Scott will never handle another live muzzled rattlesnake again — read on below for more information.
Cary Quashen · Lead Rattlesnake Wrangler · Santa Clarita, CA
"We're seeing more rattlesnakes this year than ever before. In the last three weeks of March 2026, we got over 100 calls for rattlesnakes in Santa Clarita alone. Rattlesnakes are invading Santa Clarita!"
— Cary Quashen, Lead Rattlesnake Wrangler
Need a snake removed from your property? Click here for free rattlesnake removal services →
Every rattlesnake used in our training is inside a secure containment unit. Your dog never has direct access to the snake — and that is non-negotiable. Not a preference. A standard.
We don't rent parks. We don't borrow fields. We don't share space with the public. The Snake School owns both of its training properties — which means your session happens on our terms, on our schedule, with zero interference.
My Australian Shepherd used to investigate everything. After Snake School, she completely avoided a coiled rattler on our morning hike. This training saved her life — I have zero doubt about it.
Worth every single penny. My lab mix came across a rattler six weeks after training and gave it a wide berth. Before Snake School? He would've gone nose-first into danger.
The trainers were professional and incredibly caring. My dog wasn't traumatized — she was just trained. The session was calm, efficient, and well-organized. 100% recommend.
If your dog doesn't show clear avoidance behavior by the end of the session, we'll invite them back for a complimentary follow-up — no questions asked.
Classes fill fast — especially in spring and fall when snakes are most active. Secure your dog's spot today.
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