Yes, indeed, the sharp-eyed among you win the prize. That's no tug toy Trixi has in her mouth, it is a Texas coral snake. Just in case you get lazy and don't follow that link, let me quote some choice bits:
New World coral snakes possess the second most potent venom of any North American snake, behind some rattlesnake species. However, few bites are recorded due to their reclusive nature and the fact they generally inhabit sparsely populated areas. When confronted by humans, coral snakes will almost always attempt to flee, and bite only as a last resort.... Coral snakes have a powerful neurotoxin that paralyzes the breathing muscles; mechanical or artificial respiration, along with large doses of antivenom, are often required to save a victim's life.
Kim says that the blood on Trixi's face came from the snake. It's a miracle she wasn't bitten or scratched.
When I lived southwest of Austin a few years ago, I only saw rat snakes on my property. While large and aggressive, they are not poisonous. However, one of my neighbors killed a coral snake which resulted in the amusing scene of half a dozen of us gathered around her trash can for a viewing. Hey, when you live in a rural area, just about anything can provide entertainment.
I salute Trixi, a little dog with the heart of a lion.
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