The death of a beloved cocker spaniel following an adder bite has prompted a Nailsworth family to issue a warning to other dog owners.
Nine-year-old Poppy fell ill after walking in the Nodes area, just west of the town, on the edge of Highwood. Over a 24-hour period, she became unsteady on her feet. Initially, vets thought it was a pulled muscle; but, as Poppy further declined, they found a small puncture wound indicating a snake bite. Adders, a protected species, are the UK’s only venomous snake.
Poppy’s family are devastated by their loss. “We managed to find a vet in Cheltenham with anti-venom, and she seemed to be responding,” said owner Vanessa Kellow. “It all proved too much for her system and she passed away in a veterinary hospital, four days after being bitten.”
Adders are most active between April and July, often out basking in warm weather. While rare, bites can be fatal — as in Poppy’s case. If owners suspect their dogs have been bitten, they should get them to a vet as quickly as possible.
“It not only took us by surprise, but the vets, too, which is why we want to raise awareness,” Vanessa added.
Symptoms to look out for include pain and swelling, bruising, lethargy, drooling and vomiting.
“We have since discovered that adder packs are available to purchase, which contain information, plus essential and rapid first-aid for dogs who have been bitten. These should not be instead of urgent vet attention, but they can improve a dog’s chances of recovery in the immediate aftermath.
‘We wouldn’t want any other family to watch their pet suffer in this way. Poppy was an absolutely wonderful dog and such an important part of our family. We miss her dreadfully.”
