I am terrified of snakes.  Do you know any way to keep them out of my yard?
You could move to Hawaii, Iceland, New Zealand or Antarctica!  Those are some of the only places on earth that do not naturally have snakes.
Really - Hawaii doesn't have any native snakes?  That's interesting.  What are the most common snakes?
Copperhead and Garter snakes are common where I live. I am friendly to them because they are carnivorous and eat rodents around my property!
I have a small dog, I'd be afraid they would hurt her!  Is there anything that I can do to keep them out of my yard?
Garter snakes are not poisonous, but if you want to avoid bites, keep your yard and garden clear of small spaces for them to hide, and low plants.
Would getting a cat help keep the snake population down as well?
Not all cats make good snake repellents. Most snakes are harmless, but the best action you can take is limiting their places to hide around your house.