Rattlesnake myths busted #2

Myth: If you "defang" a rattlesnake, it will be a safe pet.

Fact: Rattlesnakes shed their fangs on average, every three months. A new set will have already grown and will be ready to envenomate as soon as the old ones are shed. This is nature's way of keeping them needle-sharp and ready to pierce.

There is a procedure to remove the venom glands, however they can grow back. So even a "venomoid" is not considered safe.

There is no such thing as a safe rattlesnake, it's up to the handler to use correct safety protocols when handling venomous animals.