Golden Retriever Survives Rattlesnake Attack After Owner's Harrowing Rescue

Nicole Isaacs' dog Hank was bitten three times by a rattlesnake during a hike, sparking a desperate race to save his life.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A dog owner in Los Angeles, California, Nicole Isaacs, faced a terrifying ordeal when her golden retriever, Hank, was bitten multiple times by a rattlesnake during a hike. Despite being miles from help with no cell service, Isaacs managed to get Hank to a veterinary clinic, where he received life-saving treatment. Hank made a full recovery after a harrowing week, though he was left with permanent scars as a reminder of the incident.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the potential dangers that pet owners can face, even in seemingly safe outdoor environments. It serves as a wake-up call for dog owners, especially those living in areas with venomous snakes, to be vigilant and take precautions to protect their furry companions.

The details

While on a hike with her golden retriever and a friend, Isaacs let the dogs off their leashes, unaware that a rattlesnake was nearby. Hank was struck three times on the nose by the snake, causing him to immediately become ill and paralyzed. Isaacs had to sprint down the mountain, screaming for help, to get Hank to a veterinary clinic. At the clinic, Hank received multiple doses of antivenom, but his condition did not improve, prompting the vet to drive to another facility to get plasma. After several days in the hospital, Hank finally started to recover, though his ordeal left him with permanent scars on his nose.

  • On February 28, 2024, Isaacs and her dogs were on their 'favorite mountain hike'.
  • Hank was bitten by the rattlesnake during this hike.

The players

Nicole Isaacs

A dog owner in Los Angeles, California, who faced a terrifying ordeal when her golden retriever, Hank, was bitten by a rattlesnake during a hike.

Hank

Isaacs' golden retriever who was bitten three times by a rattlesnake and required life-saving treatment.

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What they’re saying

“I first heard the snake before seeing it; everything happened so quickly. I sprinted past them, hoping they'd chase after me so I could grab them and get away. Two of them followed, but Hank stayed with the snake and was struck three times on the nose.”

— Nicole Isaacs (Newsweek)

“The week after the bite was the longest week of my life. I don't cry often, but I couldn't stop crying. It was the waiting, not knowing if he would survive and not having answers, that broke me.”

— Nicole Isaacs (Newsweek)

What’s next

Isaacs plans to enroll Hank and his brother in a snake-avoidance training program to help prevent future incidents, and she will be more vigilant about keeping her dogs on leashes, especially during warmer months when rattlesnakes are more active.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder for pet owners, especially those living in areas with venomous snakes, to be vigilant and take precautions to protect their furry companions. The story of Hank's harrowing ordeal and miraculous recovery highlights the importance of being prepared for unexpected emergencies and the deep bond between pets and their owners.