Adder Bites In Dogs

Are all snakes a danger to my dog?

No, there are three species of snake found in the UK, these are grass snakes, adders and smooth snakes. Of these, only the adder is venomous and a danger to dogs.

Adders are generally more active in the spring and early summer; having just come out of hibernation, their venom is more potent. At this time, they are also hungrier and more likely to bite.

Adders are not known for their aggression, they will only bite in self-defence and this can be a problem for curious dogs that come across them when they’re bounding about.

What does an adder look like?

The adder is grey in colour and has a dark zig-zag pattern down its back, and a red eye. An adult adder can grow to around 60 to 80cm and they are often referred to as ‘stocky’.

Adders love the sun and can often be spotted basking in the sun in woodland, heathland and moors. They’re found across the UK, although they tend to be more common in South-West England and Scotland.

Adders are protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. It is illegal to kill or harm them. Naturally shy creatures, they’re best left alone, and they’ll do no harm.

What are the signs of an adder bite on dogs?

The most common place for an adder to bite a dog is the face or the legs. If your dog is bitten, you will usually notice an immediate swelling. If you look carefully, you may be able to spot two small puncture wounds at the centre of the bite.

The swelling can quickly become severe, especially if the dog has an allergic reaction to the venom, this can result in breathing issues. Other signs could include:

• Lameness
• Bleeding and bruising
• Howling (in pain)
• Your dog may suddenly appear very nervous

A small dog may be affected more than a larger dog. The amount that the dog has moved after being bitten will also make a difference, as will the location of the bite. Speed is of the essence.

Adder bites can be severe but are rarely fatal in dogs. However, they can make a dog very ill and should be treated as an emergency.

If you suspect that your dog has been bitten by an adder, you should take them to your vet immediately.

An untreated adder bite can result in a dog becoming dehydrated, having tremors as the venom spreads around their body, and can progress to organ damage if the reaction is severe enough. Quick response and treatment are key.

What should I do if my dog is bitten by an Adder?

Take your dog to a vet immediately. If possible, you should carry your dog; this will help to prevent the venom from circulating further around their body. You can bathe the wound in cold water. Keep your dog warm and as calm and still as possible, again this is to prevent the venom from spreading.

Your vet will likely treat your dog for shock, administer pain relief and antihistamine for the swelling. They may also use anti-venom. Anti-venom is an effective way to treat severe snake bites, it binds itself to the venom, so that it becomes inactive.

If, after a walk, you believe your dog may have been bitten by an adder, you should speak to your vet immediately.