Home /
News /
Pet insurance firm reveals adder bite signs
Pet insurance firm reveals adder bite signs
23 July 2010 15:24:55
Inquisitive dogs may be at risk of adder bites.
A pet insurance company has provided advice for dog owners after a number of policyholders got in touch to say their pets had been bitten by an adder.
The European adder, Vipera berus, is the only species of snake native to the UK that is venomous.
According to M&S Pet Insurance, adder bites are rare and dogs tend to avoid snakes in any case.
However, an over-inquisitive dog could disturb an unsuspecting adder in long grass and sustain a bite, typically on its nose or paws.
Clare Scantlebury, deputy operations manager of the insurer's Vetfone advice service, revealed: "If a bite has occurred, the area will become swollen and very painful, usually within 30 minutes. Any animals who have sustained an adder bite should be kept well hydrated."
Ms Scantlebury also noted that dogs may become restless or depressed after being bitten by an adder, as well as vomiting and collapsing.
She advised: "If you think your dog has been bitten by an adder, veterinary attention should be sought immediately as adder bites can be fatal."
Owners should also keep an eye out for adders for their own safety.
The majority of adder bites occur between March and October and symptoms include immediate and intense pain, swelling and a tingling sensation.
Product Offers
Please ensure that you fully read the terms & conditions of any product or policy before you decide to proceed and are fully aware of the total costs and the benefits and any exclusions or limitations applicable to the product or plan.
Please note that the product links will take you direct to the Issuer or Insurer's site direct and we cannot be held responsible for the information which they provide within their own sites. On some comparison tables we use a star rating which rates products by visitor popularity.