09/07/2025
As the warmer months arrive, we are more likely to spot Britain’s only venomous snake - the adder. While bites in dogs are thankfully rare, cases tend to peak between June and August. ☀️🐍
Adders are a protected species and these beautiful creatures are an important part of our ecosystem. They are not aggressive and only bite in self defence - including when stepped on or surprised by a curious dog!
By staying alert and respecting their space, we can help protect both our dogs and our native wildlife. Adders are most commonly found in drier, open habitats like:
🌳 Woodland edges
🌱 Grassy heaths and moorland
🏖 Sandy coastal areas and rocky paths
Keeping dogs under close control or on a lead, and sticking to clear paths, can help to avoid encounters.
