snake bites

guy · snake bites

I received this by email from Ryan and as he does not post am taking the liberty to relay the message.

Just a quick word of warning about being vigilant, with the current upturn in the temperature the occurances of snake bites become greater, especially among canines, as the dogs can surprise the snake and force it into a defensive strike. With the Brit's being so active and quite lightfooted on the move (sometimes) the likelihood of them disturbing a snake is high. This is even more true in heathland/woodland areas and in the south east and south west. I say this as once again my Luther has been bitten by an adder, only this time the severity of the bite is far greater. He is now being treated in the Royal College of Veterinary Medicine in Potters Bar, North London. He has had to have the anti-venom administered (which is in itself quite rare) he had slight liver malfunction, advanced renal failure, red blood cell and platelet levels are greatly depleted and he is losing is ability to move. He is now on dieuretics, plasma's, having a blood transfusion, he is catheterized and there is a very hazy outlook. Please be as vigilant as you can and if you suspect anything in your own animals seek immediate medical help.
I will try to keep everyone informed of Luther's progress, whether you're interested in his personal plight or not, due to the inquisitive nature of the Breed it is a very real threat!

Anyone wanting to contact Ryan or Gill for more details - his email can be found on the committee pages of the club site.

Ghilliegumdrop

He has sent us all apost regarding this Guy [as I'm sure you know] I just hope that they can save him without to much damage done.

johnhod

I think it only went to committee members Jan. So it's useful to share with the rest of the membership

Ghilliegumdrop

True

guy

Luther is now home fully recovered - no residual renal problems.

Lin Dyke

That is good news. Thanks Guy.

guy

Asa a follow up to this thread - it seems Piriton - antihistamine available from chemists helps if given early
this from http://www.midforestvets.co.uk/april%20newsletter%202008.pdf

Adder venom is a very potent toxin which causes all the blood vessels in the body to leak fluid
leading to ‘shock’. The venom eventually affects the heart, liver and kidneys and untreated can
result in serious illness and even fatality. Adder bites are worse in the Spring as the venom sacks
are likely to be full after hibernation. Large breeds of dog can be just as at risk as small breeds.
An ‘adder strike’ might occur without the owner being aware but the unfortunate pet will become
very listless very quickly and a swelling usually develops at the site of a bite.
Veterinary treatment should be sought urgently. If possible, carry
the dog to the car or keep on a lead to minimise exertion. Phone
your veterinary surgery in advance so they can be prepared for
your arrival. Please note, applying tourniquets or sucking out the
poison John Wayne style does not help and may make matters
worse! Giving anti histamine tablets such as ‘Piriton’, however, can
start to counteract some of the affects of the venom but are not
a substitute for proper veterinary treatment.