HUNTING DOGS -- A rattlesnake aversion clinic for dogs is being offered June 26 in Lewiston by California-based Natural Solutions.

Natural Solutions will conduct a similar clinic June 27 in Winthrop through Methow Valley Veterinary Hospital, (509) 996-3231.

The Lewiston clinic is promoted by Lewiston-area resident Shelly DeAtley, who lost her dog to a rattlesnake bite two years ago.

"This is the second year I've hosted these trainers and we've had a great response from owners whose dogs went through the training last year," DeAtley said. "This is the only stop the trainers will make in Idaho." 

After researching several outfits offering the aversion clinics – including some that do not use live snakes – she said she found good reviews for Natural Solutions. "What really sold me was that they care for their snakes as part of their team."

She talked the company into coming to Lewiston. Permits had to be obtained to bring their snakes into the state.

"We had 28 dogs, mostly sporting dogs, go through the stations and successfully complete training last year," she said. "I'm hoping for 60 dogs this year.

"Natural Solutions again gave us a discounted rate of $70 per dog and I am donating my time and space so the costs stay as low as possible."

Sign up: DeAtley, (208) 413-3032, email shellyd181@gmail.com.