LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - As a heatwave continues across the South Plains, rattlesnakes are becoming more active, and veterinarians are urging pet owners to stay alert.

Dr. Heidi Roman-Petroski, associate veterinarian at Live Oak Animal Hospital, said a bite can escalate into an emergency quickly."Swelling is going to be your number one thing. You're typically going to see some type of puncture wound as well that will potentially be bloody," Roman-Petroski said.

Rattlesnake venom can cause severe tissue damage, blood-clotting problems, and can send a pet into shock if left untreated.