Dog owners are being warned about venomous adders after a terrier was bitten on the face, leaving her owners fearing she would not survive the night. Jet, a terrier, was on holiday with owners Jonathan and Anita Matthews in Ravenscar, North Yorkshire, when she "let out a really high-pitched scream" and her face swelled up.
Josh Smith, a Bridlington-based vet who treated Jet, said that while adder bites are rarely fatal, owners should seek immediate veterinary attention if their pets are attacked. He advised against trying to treat the wound or applying tourniquets, stating the best course of action is to carry the dog to a car and go to a vet.
Jet showed signs of improvement a few days after receiving an antivenom injection and is now recovering at home after almost a week at the surgery. Mr Smith noted that facial bites are a particular concern due to the risk of airway obstruction from swelling, and the venom can affect organ systems, causing issues with kidneys, liver, and blood abnormalities.
Kevin James from the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust expressed concern that 90% of the adder population could be extinct within a decade due to public disturbance. He advised people to avoid disturbing wildlife and to keep dogs on a lead when in areas where adders are present, as they generally only bite defensively if disturbed or stood on.