What are the symptoms of adder bite?

Two small puncture marks from the bite, almost always on the muzzle or the legs. Rapid, intense swelling of the area. Severe pain. Lethargy, weakness, tremors. Pale gums. In severe cases: breathing difficulty, clotting disturbances

Is Adder bite contagious?

Adder bite does not spread directly between animals.

Urgencias

Adder bite

Adders are the only venomous snakes in the UK. Their bite injects a venom that causes a serious reaction. Curiosity leads many dogs to bring their muzzle too close.

Veterinary emergency🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY: if you suspect an adder bite, keep the animal still and go to the vet IMMEDIATELY. Do not waste time with home remedies.

Symptoms to watch for

• Two small puncture marks from the bite, almost always on the muzzle or the legs
• Rapid, intense swelling of the area
• Severe pain
• Lethargy, weakness, tremors
• Pale gums
• In severe cases: breathing difficulty, clotting disturbances

Causes

The bite of an adder (Vipera). More common in spring and summer, in hilly and rural areas. The dog is usually bitten on the muzzle while investigating.

Diagnosis

The clinical signs (a bite with rapid swelling) point towards it. The vet assesses the severity with blood tests.

Treatment

EMERGENCY: keep the animal at rest and calm (movement spreads the venom), do NOT apply tourniquets or try to suck out the venom, and seek help immediately. The vet treats with supportive care, pain control and, depending on the case, antivenom.

Prevention

In spring and summer, prevent the dog from putting its muzzle into bushes and gaps between rocks in hilly areas. Keep it under control in the countryside.

When should you see the vet?

ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY: if you suspect an adder bite, keep the animal still and go to the vet IMMEDIATELY. Do not waste time with home remedies.

Consult a vet 24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.