Handlinga snake bite
Vets are warning dog owners they should know what to do if their pet gets bitten by a snake – after a Yorkshire terrier had to have its leg amputated this week. Eight-year-old Junior was attacked by an adder while out walking in Perthshire with owner Lucy Gordon, 23. He’s now in a critical condition at the Edinburgh Veterinary School.
A PDSA spokesperson says: “Snake bites are an emergency, so don’t ignore them.
“Adder bites are especially common between June and August. With treatment, most dogs recover, but some bites are very serious, cause severe illness and even death.” The PDSA urges:
1. Stay calm. Call your vet to say you’re on your way. 2. If you see the snake, take a photo from a distance or try to remember what it looks like. Do not try to find the snake, touch it or harm it.
3. Keep your dog as still as possible to prevent venom spreading around its body.
4. Leave the bite alone – don’t apply a bandage.
5. If possible, bring transport to your dog.