Adder bite prompts warning to dog owners

A Labrador owner whose dog survived an adder bite is urging others to be aware of the risks after a frightening encounter, and stresses the importance of lifetime pet insurance for emergency care and unexpected vet bills.

At 17 months old, Oakley Valentino is a typical Labrador, mischievous and full of energy. But when he suffered an adder bite during an everyday walk, his family was left wondering if he would pull through.

Owner Matt received a panicked phone call from his wife, Manda, telling him that Oakley had been bitten while sniffing around Frensham Common. The curious Labrador had his nose deep in the grass when he disturbed an adder, which struck him on the nose.

Emergency treatment

Bleeding heavily and suddenly unable to use his legs, Oakley was rushed to the emergency vet in Farnham. There, he received urgent antivenom and was kept overnight for treatment. A combination of fluids, antihistamines, anti-inflammatories and pain relief helped stabilise him and reduce the swelling.

After a night under observation, Oakley spent the following day at his local clinic before returning home, feeling sorry for himself but recovering well.

The incident also served as a visceral reminder of the importance of lifetime pet insurance, which can help owners access emergency treatment quickly and focus on their pet’s recovery, rather than unexpected veterinary bills.

Advice for dog owners

Oakley’s owners, Matt and Manda, hope their experience will encourage other dog owners to seek veterinary attention immediately if they suspect an adder bite.

“Thankfully, after a few unusually quiet days without his usual shoe-stealing and bin-raiding, Oakley has made a full recovery,” said Manda.

“We’re so relieved to report that he’s well and truly back to his mischievous self. He’s even become a bit of a local celebrity! I posted a warning to other dog owners on the local social media pages, and we’ve had so many kind messages from well-wishers. Oakley even got recognised in person by a kind stranger in Petersfield.”

Be ready for the unexpected with lifetime cover

“We’re so fortunate that Oakley joined the family with his breeders’ five weeks of free Agria Pet Insurance, which we chose to upgrade to the Lifetime policy,” said Matt. “That decision not only helped us avoid some hefty vet bills – it also saved Oakley’s life. It feels great to have him back to his usual self, our furry tornado of chaos!”

The adder is Britain’s only venomous snake. While people usually experience pain and swelling following a bite, it can be much more serious for dogs because of their curious nature.

Dogs are most commonly bitten on the paws or front legs, but bites to the nose can be particularly dangerous because the venom can spread more quickly through the body.

When an adder strikes

Adders are most active during the warmer months, particularly between spring and autumn, when they emerge from hibernation to breed and bask in the sun. They are commonly found on heathland, moorland and in coastal areas. They vary in colour from silver-grey to brown and can be identified by their distinctive zig-zag pattern.

Lars Mortensen, head veterinarian at the Agria App, which gives you free 24/7 access to expert advice from a vet, said: “Following an adder bite, you will usually notice significant swelling at the bite site, which can be very painful. Sometimes two distinct puncture marks can be seen from the fangs, but the visibility of these depends much on the location of the bite as well as the dog’s coat density and colour. In more severe cases, the venom may have systemic effects on the dog, causing lethargy or even vomiting.

“Contact your vet immediately if your dog is unlucky enough to be bitten by an adder or if you notice an acute and painful swelling or sudden lethargy. Early treatment provides the best basis for a successful outcome and a quick return to their usual much-loved personalities.”

BASC working dog insurance

From adder bites to accidents in the field, working dogs can face risks wherever they go. Unlike many policies, BASC Dog Insurance provides lifetime cover for injuries and illnesses sustained while working or training, helping owners focus on their dog’s recovery rather than unexpected veterinary costs.

Find out more about the BASC Dog Insurance and the many other benefits we offer members.

Visit the Agria website for advice on pet welfare and to find out more about the Agria App.

BASC Direct Ltd is an introducer appointed representative of Agria Pet Insurance Ltd, which administers the insurance and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Agria insurance policies are underwritten by Agria Forsakring, which is authorised and regulated by the Prudential Regulation Authority and the Financial Conduct Authority.