With several instances around the UK of dogs being bitten by Adders this year, our dog health and insurance administrator Hayley wanted to share some advice on how to deal with an adder bite should your dog receive one.

The Adder (otherwise known as Vipera berus) is the only venomous snake that is native to the United Kingdom. They are usually found in the south and south west of England, western Wales and Scotland. This is because these areas house their preferred types of habitat.

Adders are often found in or near sand dunes, heathland, rocky hillsides, moorland and woodland edges. They are most active between April and July, usually making an appearance in the afternoon.

Signs to look out for

While bites are not particularly common, they can happen. Things to look out for if your dog may have been bitten include pain and swelling at the bite site (normally on the face or lower limbs), marked bruising and occasionally generalised weakness.

What to do if you suspect your dog has been bitten

If you think your dog has been bitten by an snake, you need to take them to the vets immediately. Call your vet for an emergency appointment as soon as you can and let them know that you suspect your dog has been bitten.

• Never attempt to ‘suck out’ the poison yourself if you suspect a snake bite
• Keep your dog as calm as possible – remember that dogs can read your body language and behaviours so try to remain calm as well
• Try to stop any haemorrhage by wrapping the wound

Treatment for snake bites

In the event of a venomous snake bite, many dogs require anti-venom therapy and hospitalisation. Between 96-97% of dogs will make a full recovery from an adder bite. This will usually take up to 5 days with the right treatment.