With spring turning to summer, it’s not just the longer days and pretty flowers that we see here in North Wales as the longer days draw in.

Adders, the Uk’s only venomous snake, is waking from hibernation and we will see an increase in their activity during the next few months as they search for a mate and subsequently birth their young.

 

Adders can be found in most areas of our country, particularly moorlands, heathlands and our sandy beaches and sand dunes.  They can often be seen basking in the sunshine. Most adder bites occur when they are suddenly disturbed, which is why our inquisitive dogs are more likely to be bitten than ourselves.

How do I know my dog has been bitten?

  • Adder bites in dogs can result in swelling around the wound, usually within 2 hours, and this can be severe. You might be able to see the 2 puncture wounds in the centre of the swelling.
  • Other than swelling your dog may show signs of pain, bleeding, bruising, lameness and may appear nervous.
  • If the adder venom is absorbed into the rest of the body it can cause a widespread inflammatory reaction leading to symptoms such as lethargy, fever, increased heart and respiratory rates, drooling, vomiting and a wobbly gait.
  • In severe cases animals may collapse, have blood clotting problems, organ failure, tremors or convulsions.
  • Bites most commonly occur on a dog’s legs or face. If your dog is bitten on the face, it could lead to swelling of the face and muzzle and may result in breathing difficulties.

Bennett-Williams Vets, based at Gaerwen on Anglesey, have given the following advice to reduce to chance of your pet being bitten and what to do if a bite occurs.

What can we do to minimise the risks of our dogs being bitten?

🐍  keep your dogs on short leads when in their known habitats. Preventing them exploring under growths, especially during the summer months.

🐍  Get educated! Adder bites are rare and they would prefer to avoid humans and dogs, often retreating to hide when faced with a threat. It is ILLEGAL to harm or kill an adder in the UK due to their decline in numbers.

🐍 If you believe your dog has been bitten, call and visit your vet immediately. Common signs of an adder bite include localised swelling to a limb or face, often with 2 noticeable small puncture wounds in the centre. Restlessness and shortness of breath. Drooling,  dehydration and lethargy are also common symptoms.  If possible you should carry your dog to avoid the toxins spreading rapidly and keep them calm until you reach the vet.

🐍 Don’t panic! The severity of adder bites depends on the location of the bite and the amount of venom injected.

❌ Do not attempt 1st aid yourself as you may do more harm than good.

❌ Do not use a torniquet

❌ Do not attempt to suck or cut the venom out of a bite

❌ Do not attempt to handle, injure or kill an adder. You could be breaking the law.

🌞Remember to stay calm, call your vet immediately and stay safe