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Whitby adder warning after dogs bitten
DOG owners are being warned to be on their guard against snakes after four dogs were bitten in the Whitby area in one weekend.
All four dogs were taken to Clevedale Veterinary Surgery, in The Parade, where they were treated for adder bites.
Buster, an eight-year-old German Shepherd, was one of the dogs to be taken to the surgery after he was bitten on the face by an adder while playing in his garden.
His owner, Tim Heald (66) of Eskdale, said: "It was about 10.30am on the Sunday morning and I let my dogs out in the yard.
"Next thing I knew there was a yelp and Buster came flying in the back door.
"I went into the back yard and found and adder sitting on the concrete, hissing and spitting at me.
"Buster's face swelled right up. By the time I got him to the vet he looked more like a boxer dog, his face was all wrinkled. To be honest, I think Buster had probably tried to pick the snake up, hopefully he will have learnt his lesson now."
Vet James Haddow, from Clevedale Surgery, said although it is quite common for dogs to be bitten by adders, it is "extremely unusual" to see four incidents in one weekend.
He said: "I have been a vet for more than 20 years and we do tend to see between one and three dogs brought in each year with bites, so it is quite common.
"However, it is very rare for me to see four dogs in one weekend. Luckily, all four dogs were treated and have now fully recovered.
"Dogs owners have to be careful and, although it is hard, they should try to always be aware where their dog is. Also, if you hear your dog yelp make an effort to find out what is wrong, don't assume it is nothing."
Mr Haddow said although it is rare, dogs can die from adder bites as the venom can cause severe muscular damage.
He also explained that research has revealed untreated bites can lead to the dog developing heart disease in later life.
Rachel McIntosh, communications officer for the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: "Adders are found across the North York Moors but they are on the whole timid, wary creatures and will tend to slip away quietly if they hear or see anyone approaching.
"It is unusual to see an adder and therefore extremely unusual to be bitten by one. If you are planning on walking through vegetation rather than on an open path you may want to think about wearing trainers or boots rather than sandals.
"Dogs are naturally curious creatures and as they are lighter on their feet than us, may be able to sneak up on an adder without it noticing.
"Keep your dog under close control (preferably on a lead) to prevent them from disturbing and surprising adders and other wildlife.
"It also goes without saying, but if you do come across an adder don't try to pick it up or touch it – just give it room and it won't give you any trouble.
"In the very unlikely event that you are bitten by an adder, seek medical help as quickly as you can."
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Weather for Whitby
Thursday 23 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 8 C to 14 C
Wind Speed: 29 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 3 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 23 mph
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