West Down Parish Council

Warning to dog owners - adders have been sighted.

If you think your dog has been bitten by an Adder, take it to a vet as quickly as possible. The sooner your dog sees a vet, the better their chances of making a full recovery.

• Carry your dog to reduce the spread of the Adder’s venom around your dog’s body.
• Bathe the wound in cold water to help control the swelling.
• Keep your dog warm, but not too warm, and quiet as you transport it to the vet.
• Don’t attempt any first aid as this can do more harm than good.
  
  

If you don’t see the incident, symptoms of Adder bites in dogs can include:

• Two small puncture wounds
• Major swelling that may be dark in colour
• Limping, yelping or other evidence of your dog being in pain
• Blood/bruises
• Inflamed skin – from where the venom has spread