Spring is coming and that means adders will become active. We have already received our first enquiries about adder bites.
The adder (Vipera berus berus) is the only venomous snake native to the UK, and is also found across northern Europe. It is a protected species in the UK. Adders are most commonly- but not exclusively- found on dry, sandy heaths, sand dunes, rocky hillsides, moorlands and woodland edges.
The venom of the adder is a complex mix of chemical compounds that cause a variety of effects on the body. The clinical signs of an adder bite can include:
• Rapid, progressive, local swelling around the bite site
• Pain
• Lethargy
• Collapse
• Vomiting
• Panting
• Lameness
• Bruising
• Bleeding
Adders are not aggressive and generally only bite when provoked. They hibernate in the winter and as a result most bites occur in the summer. Pets are frequently bitten on the leg, head or neck.
Veterinary professionals can call us any time on 02073 055 055 if required for assistance with managing cases of adder bites. We also hold a list of Antivenom stockists across the UK so if you do not have any in stock but need some urgently for a case please call us and we can assist you in obtaining some.
