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How Dangerous Is an Adder Bite to Dogs?

Adder Snake Bites: Understanding the Risk to Your Dog and What You Can Do

Typical symptoms include

Sudden yelping followed by limping

Swelling at the bite site (usually the leg or face)

Bruising or redness

Lethargy or collapse

Vomiting

Breathing difficulties (in severe cases)

For most healthy adult dogs, an adder bite is painful and requires prompt veterinary care but isn’t usually fatal. However, the venom can cause serious complications, especially in smaller dogs, elderly pets, or those with underlying health issues.

The bite can cause tissue damage, allergic reactions, or even anaphylactic shock in rare situations. Without treatment, the venom can spread, leading to systemic illness or infection.

Warmer Weather Awakens the Wildlife 

As spring and summer awaken the natural world, it’s not just wildflowers and bees making their appearance, Britain’s only native venomous snake, the adder, also becomes more active. For dog owners who enjoy countryside walks, particularly in heathland, woodland edges, or coastal paths, it’s vital to be aware of the potential danger these snakes can pose.

What Are Adders and Where Are They Found?

Adders (Vipera berus) are small, stocky snakes, typically grey or brown with a distinctive dark zigzag pattern down their backs. They’re not aggressive and will generally avoid contact, but if surprised or threatened, especially by a curious dog. They may bite in self-defense.

They tend to bask in the sun during warm weather and are most commonly found in:


  • Heather-covered heathlands

  • Coastal dunes

  • Woodland edges

  • Grassy clearings

Dorset, the New Forest, and other southern parts of the UK are hotspots for adder activity, but they can be found in various rural locations across the country.



 

What Should You Do If Your Dog Is Bitten?


  1. Stay Calm – Dogs pick up on your stress, so stay composed.

  2. Carry Your Dog If Possible – Movement can help circulate the venom. If your dog is small or you’re able, carry them to reduce venom spread.

  3. Seek Immediate Veterinary Attention – Don’t wait. Early treatment greatly improves outcomes.

  4. Don’t Try to Suck or Cut the Bite – These are outdated methods and can worsen the situation.

  5. Do Not Apply Ice or a Tourniquet – This can cause more harm than good.

Vets may administer antivenom, pain relief, fluids, and other supportive care based on the severity of the bite and your dog’s reaction but they are the best people to seek help from if you are able to do so.

How to Prevent Adder Bites


  • Keep dogs on lead in areas known for adders during spring and summer.

  • Stick to clear paths and avoid allowing your dog to roam through undergrowth or basking spots.

  • Train your dog to leave snakes or avoid unfamiliar objects.

  • Stay vigilant during warm days when adders are sunning themselves.

 

Natural Support for Recovery

If your dog has been bitten and is recovering, nutritional support plays a key role. At Nurturing by Nature, we advocate for a diet rich in natural, raw, species-appropriate foods that help support immune function and reduce inflammation. Foods rich in omega-3, such as oily fish, and anti-inflammatory supplements like turmeric or green-lipped mussel, can be beneficial during recovery.

 

Adder bites, while potentially serious, are manageable with quick action and awareness. As always, prevention is best. Knowing the signs and being prepared can make all the difference.

If you're unsure what to feed a dog recovering from an injury or want to strengthen your pet's natural resilience, feel free to reach out to our team at Nurturing by Nature. We're here to help you every step of the way with guidance grounded in nature and backed by years of hands-on experience.

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