Canine first aid course for professionals

Adders are the only venomous snakes in England. Luckily, the harm they might do to a person is painful, but rarely life threatening. However, for a small dog an adder bite can be dangerous. As the weather improves, I am more likely to be seeing cases of curious canines disturbing these reptiles on our commons, and regretting it.

How can you tell if your pet has been attacked by a snake?

If you are present, you will almost certainly hear your dog cry out with pain, and leap back or run away. However some dogs, having initially done, will go back to ‘have another go’.

But it’s not uncommon for me to diagnose a snake bite that is news to the owner. Within a few hours the affected limb or the face become quite swollen and tender. The pet is depressed and feverish.

Depending on how much venom the snake had in its sacs, a small pet can collapse and die.

So what can you do if your dog is attacked by a snake in Sussex?

There is no need to attempt to catch the snake. We know what species it is, being the only one.

Nor do you need to attempt any Crocodile Dundee style sucking and spitting.

But you do need to get to a vet promptly, and to keep your pet as quiet and calm as possible on the way. Ideally, carry them.

Certainly you can spend a few moments washing out the wound with water, if you have some, but don’t waste time on it.

If you would like to learn more about managing your pet in an emergency and animal first aid, our next courses are now available for booking at themewesvets.co.uk/ events.

Our in-depth course for people who work professionally with canines is on May 16 at 6.30pm at The Yews Community Centre.

We also have our pet first aid course for pet owners on June 6. Pre-booking is essential as places are limited.

And don’t forget to join us for the dog show at the Cuckoo Fayre next bank holiday Monday, May 2.