Adder Snakebite in Dogs: Welfare and First Aid

Adder bites are the only venomous snake bites in the UK and cause significant pain and systemic illness in affected dogs, requiring prompt veterinary treatment.

Key Facts

The European adder (Vipera berus) is the only venomous snake native to the UK and Scandinavia
Adder bites typically occur on the muzzle or limbs when dogs investigate or attempt to catch the snake
Venom causes local tissue swelling, pain, and in severe cases systemic effects including cardiovascular collapse
Antivenom (ViperaTAb) is the most effective treatment for severe adder bites and should be used early
Mortality in untreated severe cases can reach 5%; with appropriate treatment, prognosis is generally good

Welfare Considerations

Adder bites cause acute pain and rapid swelling that can be dramatic and distressing for both dogs and owners. Local tissue necrosis, systemic vascular effects, and coagulopathy can follow in severe cases. The welfare priority is rapid veterinary assessment to determine severity and administer analgesia and antivenom as appropriate. Delays in seeking treatment increase the risk of serious systemic complications. Owners in adder habitat should know the signs of snakebite and the nearest emergency veterinary practice. Prevention through keeping dogs on leads in known adder basking areas during warm months reduces exposure.

What You Can Do

Keep dogs on leads in areas known to support adder populations during warm months
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if a dog is bitten by or near an adder
Do not attempt to treat adder bites at home — antivenom requires veterinary administration
Report adder sightings to local wildlife recording groups to help map population distribution