- Ripley, a medium-sized dog with a strong prey drive, curiously approached Brian, a large western diamondback rattlesnake, until she got a quick zap on the neck meant to simulate a venomous viper's bite.

Suddenly, the 2-year-old blue heeler mix wanted nothing to do with Brian's textured brown skin or furiously rattling tail.

Ripley was never in danger because Brian had his venom glands removed years ago.