Snake bites are not a common problem seen in veterinary practice, but they
are always a concerning one. The summer months are when adders are most active
and dogs foraging in undergrowth are most likely to disturb one. They are
generally reclusive snakes and will quietly make their escape if they can, but
they can bite if startled by a dog or human.
The adder’s objective will be to briefly bite and then escape. They are not
aiming to kill the victim of the bite in the way they would their prey.
Therefore, in general, they do not release significant amounts of venom in the
short bite. This is compared to the situation where they kill prey, in which
they bite and hold on, releasing venom into the subject for some seconds or even
minutes.
This does not mean that a snake bite is not serious, but it thankfully means
that they are not likely to result in death due to venom. However, they will
still stimulate massive local inflammation and pain, sometimes with more
generalised anaphylactic reaction in the body. So a suspected snake bite remains
a matter of emergency as this allergic reaction can be life threatening in
itself even without the venom.
Most owners whose dogs are bitten report that the dog was in undergrowth at
the time and so they very rarely have seen the snake itself. They may hear the
dog cry out. Wherever the bite has occurred, the soft tissue will immediately
swell which can lead to lameness if on a limb or facial swelling if on the face.
If swelling occurs around the throat region, then breathing difficulties may be
observed. A generalised anaphylactic reaction will result in increased
respiratory rate, progressing to shortness of breath; there may be vomiting and
eventually the animal will collapse.
The Vet will treat the animal will intravenous fluids to support the
circulation, pain killers, steroids and anti-histamines. The steroids and
anti-histamines help to reduce the allergic response. Antibiotic cover is
usually necessary. Good nursing care then will allow most dogs to recover. If
there is a suspicious of significant evenomation by the adder then anti-venom
can be ordered and couriered from London.
Snake bites are very rare, but are an emergency if they occur. If your animal
is affected, you will probably never see the snake but you should be suspicious
of a snake bite in situations where your pet cries out and rushes out of
undergrowth when exploring, or if sudden onset massive swelling is observed in a
localised area of the body. If you do suspect this, then call your vet
immediately.
Mark Maltman
Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic
Lyons Farm EstateAdder yons Road
Slinfold
W Sussex, RH13 0QP
01403 791011
www.maltmancosham.co.uk