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I understand everyone's opinion, but I have something to add.
A "good vet" is one that does not try to make a buck off of everything, does not force you into certain therapies, and will not make you feel guilty for not following his/her recommendations. However, the difference between a "good vet" and an "excellent vet" is that an excellent vet will always surpass your expectations. He/She will always be able to offer you and your pet the best possible veterinary care options. That does not mean that you have to pursue them.
The biggest crime in veterinary medicine is for a vet to pre-judge your feelings on your dog and to limit your options without your consent. If I was presented with your dog after a rattlesnake bite, I would urge you to have me examine your dog, admit it to my care, administer various medications including antivenin and monitor it for 2-3 days. I would be very clear as to why I recommend those things, but if you desired, I would also advise you on other "treatment" options which can include a couple of shots or doing nothing. But be sure that I would let you know what chances you are taking.
Wouldn't you be pissed if you took your 3 year old son into your pediatrician for vomiting for 3 days, not eating anything, and now acting very lethargic if you pediatrician just replied... "Ah, pretty sick kid. You know, he's only 3, so why don't we try you giving him some aspirin and seeing if he get's better." Doesn't seem appropriate does it? Now I know dogs do not equal kids, but wouldn't you be happier with your pediatrician if he replied, "I'm very concerned, I will do my best, and here's my thoughts..."
As far as not doing anything and expecting your dog to be ahright after a rattlesnake bite without any medical therapy, I have a few things to add. First of all, yes most will probably "survive." But I guarantee all will be significantly painful during the rehabilitation process and a few will have major complications that can include death. Is that right for your four legged hunting pal? More importantly, is it right for your vet to make that judgement for you and tell you not to do something especially if you were intending on pursuing more aggressive care?
Many feel that vets are in it for the money. That is really unfortunate. Did you know that the current veterinary medical student will probably graduate with over a 1/4 of a million dollars in student loans and hope to land a job that pays on average $60K a year? That's barely enough to pay back the student loans. Trust me when I say that if vet's were in it for the money, we would get a different job. There are easier ways that are significantly less stressful to make money. Most of us do our job because we love being involved with our client's lives, caring for your pets and trying to make a difference. Making money is the last thing on our minds. Just ask any veterinary industry consultant... veterinarians are terrible money managers and business owners. We would rather give things away than make an honest living.
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